North Carolina State University Reviews

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Wolfpackfan124

06/17/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

61 out of 62 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

I recommend NC State to highly motivated students and those who wish to explore many possibilities. Also, NC State is great for those that like a wide variety of extra-curricular activities and networking opportunities.

Tips for prospective students

Get to know others in your classes. If they happen to have the same major as you, great! If not you'll at least have someone to help you or collaborate with in that particular class. Be sure to get paperwork and such done as ahead of time as possible. Be sure to study the notes you just took the same day in order to be sure you understand the concepts. It is also a good idea to read ahead in the textbook if possible.

Bang for the buck

NC State is of course a public college, which means most funding is set by the government and donations. As such, tuition and other student costs have to pick up the slack. However, if you qualify for financial aid and scholarships, these costs can be offset for the most part. More specifically, textbooks at the NCSU Bookstore on campus are usually more expensive than those offered by other online retailers. Also, the NCSU Bookstore has now started offering textbook rentals through the internet (similar to Chegg).

Am enjoying being here

I live off-campus and deal with much more Raleigh traffic than a student that might live on-campus. Otherwise, my experience is alright. When I need to get around at the campus, I can take the Wolfline to get where I need to go. Also, there are places like Taco Bell and Chic-fil-a on campus to eat at as well as dining halls.

Am learning a lot

Great school; learn new things even in introductory classes. The majority of my engineering professors at NCSU have been top notch. They have helped me to go beyond the formulas and math by teaching the concepts related to the subject as well as problem solving skills.

Joseph from Concord, NC

Great for anyone interested in science and math, especially pre-vet or engineering.

Tips for prospective students

I advice you to come in the NC State prepared to study and work your butt off. NC State is very fun, but it is also challenging, especially the science and math classes.

Bang for the buck

You definitely get your money's worth when you attend NC State. There are so many activities and sports you can do that are all included in the tuition cost. You can attend the gym, play intramural sports, or even hang out in the library. There is something for everyone.

Am enjoying being here

I enjoy living in Raleigh. I live 10 minutes off campus, so I have to drive or ride the bus on to campus everyday. However, I enjoy the scenery, the people, the campus, and the learning experiences that have achieved at NC State. There are a lot of clubs, activities, sports, and community service activities to get into as well.

Am learning a lot

I am pre-vet at NC State. Being involved in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), I tend to take many science and math classes. NC State is a great science and math school and I have learned so much already, even though I have just completed my first year!

Riley Carl from Clayton, NC

12/25/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

22 out of 22 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

NC State is great for most types of students. It features programs for students who like to be active within the community and also those who would prefer to stick to the studies (or video games too). The events range from concerts featuring artists like Daughtry, Josh Gracin, Ludacris, N.E.R.D., to events like the LAN Party and other similar competitions. Any student is welcome to join the Wolfpack at North Carolina State University, no matter what type you might fall into.

Tips for prospective students

A tip for prospective students would be to GET INVOLVED! This university is nothing without the students who help to make it better every day. One of the greatest assets of NC State is the administration's understanding that if it wasn't for the students, they would be out of the job. So administrations and staff members are well apt to changing the rules and benefiting students, however the only way that happens is if the students are active, professional, and involved!

Bang for the buck

NC State is a great college to choose if you want to gain a diploma with prestige and also save money along the way. NC State is one of the less expensive colleges in the area, yet the experiences (academic and personal) are not hindered whatsoever.

Am enjoying being here

Campus Life, Student Organizations, and so much more contribute to the experience students will endeavor at North Carolina State University. I, myself, am a Senator in Student Government, Hall Representative for the Inter Residence Council, Executive Board Member for my Residence Hall, and an applicant for Resident Assistant. There are so many opportunities for students to get involved at NC State and the list is endless. Organizations put on events almost every single day so students are never wishing they chose a different university because of their alleged boredom.

Am learning a lot

North Carolina State University is an amazing university, especially in its academics. Everywhere from Humanities and Social Sciences to Engineering there are massive opportunities to better your knowledge and continue forward with the best education you will need to pursue your dreams after college.

Nicholas from Clayton, NC

If you are into engineering or agriculture this school should definitely be considered.

Tips for prospective students

If you're looking to get into State try hard to work on your math and sciences. The school offers a lot and can even offer you a job coming in (I am currently one of the lifeguards on campus). Try and get into a dorm if you can as it will help you find people to study with as well as take a break with when you need one.

Bang for the buck

If you are careful about what classes you select you can get quite a bit of your course load done each semester and even graduate early if you are really dedicated. The school also provides free bus access and has a movie theater that is cheap for students.

Am enjoying being here

The campus is nice and has a friendly atmosphere. A lot of things are usually going on, but if you commute you will probably be left out of some of these.

Am learning a lot

There are tons of classes available at state that offer a wide range of study areas. NC State also offers plenty of tutoring opportunities as well as tons of computers at your use.

Apply as early as possible as it improves your chances of getting in. Visit departments to see where you can fit in.

Bang for the buck

Great deal for a highly reputable education for in state students.

Am enjoying being here

Plenty to do on-campus with a wide variety of activities to participate in both on and off campus. Living and learning dorms help the freshmen transition.

Am learning a lot

I am an engineering student with lots of challenging classes including calculus 2, physics and chemistry. Introductory classes are an average of 100 students until you get into more specialized areas. Teachers vary in teaching ability but in the end it is always the individuals responsibility to learn the material. Take advantage of offered office hours, they can be a big help.

Ethan from Green Mtn., NC

Engineering Students. I'm sure it is good for other majors as well, but I am in here for engineering and it is great. Also a very visual college for visual learners

Tips for prospective students

Go to the SI sessions. If you are having trouble in a class, especially a class designed to weed undergraduates out, get help. Go talk to the teacher, they will bend over backwards to help you out.

Bang for the buck

It might not be the most aesthetically pleasing college, unless you absolutely love brick but it is a very functional college. I got the freedom food plan and I literally don't need any cash.

Am enjoying being here

Very much so. It is a great college filled with great people. Everyone is extremely friendly from staff to students. Not to mention it is located right in downtown Raleigh.

Am learning a lot

The Professors are very knowledgeable and are more than willing to help individual students out. They are constantly announcing office hours and working with students’ schedules. There are also a variety of tutoring resources from SI sessions to free personal tutors.

Jennifer from Staten Island, NY

06/09/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

10 out of 10 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

There are a lot of in-state people so it is not the most diverse. However, being an out-of-state student allowed me to see a completely different type of living and meet some interesting people. Really, I think this school is great for anyone. As far as majors, this school is HUGE in agriculture and veterinary. Engineering, Biology, and Education are also very large majors here. Even if the major isn't large, all the programs are great here.

Tips for prospective students

The biggest advice I can give is don't be afraid to speak up in class. Whether its talking to the professor or to other classmates, making connections will help you! The classes in which I didn't talk to anyone were definitely my hardest. Your classmates will be the most helpful people when it comes to studying, you will learn so much from them and you always have them to help you. Professors and TAs are also extremely helpful. Don't be afraid to use your resources when you are having trouble...that's what they are there for!

Bang for the buck

Out of state prices are a little bit high compared to in state prices, but they are still much lower than other schools around the country. The main thing is to know how to earn grants and scholarships and manage your money well.

Am enjoying being here

I am from New York so it could just be I am not used to that southern hospitality but everyone is so friendly here. I never have to worry about feeling out of place or finding someone to help with school work.

Am learning a lot

I am going to be a junior here and have already completed most of my core classes for my major. I have learned so much information about not just the field I am interested in, but other fields as well. I never find myself bored here.

Andre'' from Midway Park, NC

07/13/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

9 out of 13 people found this review useful.
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Tips for prospective students

This is an amazing school. The professors are a great help, and the classes are a lot of fun. You make many new friends, and they have a sport for everybody. This school has many different majors and minors to choose from and is great for anybody who loves to meet new people and loves furthering their education.

Hannah from Matthews, NC

01/05/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

9 out of 9 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

NC State is renowned for its programs in Engineering and Agriculture, but there are also good programs in the Humanities, Education, and Design. Overall, NC State would be a good fit for a student who is determined to succeed in both academic and personal endeavors.

Tips for prospective students

I would advise that you keep your high school GPA as high as possible. Be sure to have community service or volunteer hours, as well as academic extracurricular activities. All of these combined make for a competitive application. I would also advise any prospective student to come take a campus tour to see if NC State seems like a good fit in person.

Bang for the buck

You absolutely cannot beat the price of NC State. In-state tuition is about $6,000 per academic year, and the quality is superior to many other schools in the state. I am so glad that I chose to go to NCSU for my undergraduate degree-- I simply would not have found a better value anywhere else.

Am enjoying being here

I absolutely love it at NCSU! I live in the Honors Village, and I love the environment there. The people are very kind, and it is nice to live in a community where everyone around me is as driven to succeed as I am. I also love the campus. While there is quite a bit of brick, I find the campus very pretty and nice to walk around. The Court of the Carolinas is a beautiful grassy area that has plenty of space to go outdoors and work.

Am learning a lot

I enjoyed most of my classes this past semester. Because I am a freshman, I was enrolled in mostly entry-level courses. Most of my classes were very well-taught. However, I felt like my Calculus teacher did not do a very good job. She seemed to go off topic and talk about her personal life a great deal.

Taylor from Longmont, CO

NCSU has ranking programs for engineering, textiles, design, and veterinary medicine. If you plan to go to NC State, these are the programs you should be interested in.

Tips for prospective students

Be prepared to work. While North Carolina State University is a public school, it is not a slacker school. If you are in their engineering, design, textiles, or veterinary program, you will be force to work hard to keep up to their standards. It is also important to get involve. Get to know your teachers, peers, and local companies. The more you get around, the more likely you will be to land a good internship or get a boost from your professors.

Bang for the buck

Tuition at NC State is dirt cheap. North Carolina does a great job of financing their public schools, and their tuition rates reflect that. Housing and meal plans are also quite reasonably priced. NCSU has been rated one of the best universities for the money for many years in a row by Princeton Review. With the great facilities, prime location, and low tuition, it will be hard to beat NCSU.

Did enjoy being here

North Carolina State University is a great community to be a part of. Football games and basketball games are a blast, and the school spirit is something to be reckoned with. If you are looking for a party school, NCSU is not the place to be. While it does have parties, almost all upperclassmen live off campus so it can be challenging to get to them. As with many colleges, NCSU has good dorms and bad dorms. Luckily, NCSU has converted an old hotel into a dormitory with huge rooms and a full bathroom in every room. Overall I thoroughly enjoyed my time at NCSU and could not have asked for a better learning environment.

Did learn a lot

If North Carolina State University is known for anything other than its ugly brick campus, it is known for its fantastic engineering program. NCSU is one of the top ranked engineering schools in the United States for a good reason; it has wonderful professors, and an abundance of great facilities. It also has a nuclear reactor on campus, and it is one of only two of its kind in existence. Aside from its engineering programs, NCSU also has one of the best veterinary hospital facilities in the world. With a new hospital completed this year (2011), as well as an older hospital, and a new research building, and dozens of other facilities and plenty of land, NCSU is by far one of the most well equipped Universities for veterinary medicine.

lawdawg2011

anyone, there are all types here and you will find people just like you all you have to do is come and look around.

Tips for prospective students

Classes are important but it is key to get plugged in with people. A group of friends or some kind of club or other extra curricular activity. I strongly recommend campus crusade for christ great people alot of fun made my first year awesome.

Christin from Charlotte, NC

06/15/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

5 out of 5 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

The great thing about state is that there is a niche for everyone. Engineers, fashion majors, greek life students, or park scholars. Although the school is the largest in North Carolina, I have found that it seems very small. When you start to narrow your classes into your college then major, you get to know people who have the same interests as you, and end up taking most of your classes with them. Give NC state a chance, and you will like what you see!

Tips for prospective students

Trying to decide if State is the school for you? Don't just listen to me... take a campus tour. Tucker and Owen are the best freshmen dorms, but you have to be in the first year college major to live there (other than University Towers, a privately owned place on west campus... its expensive, but worth it). The dining halls are great too, but if you get sick of them, walk over to Hillsborough street for some great food. Also, be sure to check out sites like rate my professor.com before registering for classes.

Bang for the buck

I read a statistic last year that literally stated that NC State was the best bang for your buck in North Carolina. So, if that's not convincing enough, just look at tuition costs. I think they're 6,000 a year or something like that? Compare that to Duke or Wake and your parents will be very happy.

Am enjoying being here

Raleigh is a great city to live in; in has shopping, bars, restaurants, and a great downtown. Campus is awesome, and even the dorms are pretty good. State has a great new gym for working out, many different dining halls, nice classrooms, great new technology, and brilliant professors.

Am learning a lot

NC State is a great school to come to in order to get all of the credentials you need to get a job after college. Once you get past the broad introductory classes, you get into smaller classes that are super easy understand. State has also incorporated everything online, which makes learning on your own easy too. Your classes, some lectures, grades, announcements, classmates names, anything you could possibly want to know is available to you over Mypack portal, vista, or moodle.

Shayna from Germantown, MD

06/13/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

5 out of 5 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

NC State provides texts and emails when a crime has happened so that everyone on campus is warned. They are very quick to respond to calls and can be see all over campus. There is also blue safety lights that can help a person in an emergency. NC State even offers a safety escort if you feel unsafe walking somewhere on campus.

Greek Life

There are a large number of sorority and fraternities. They are very popular, but there is also a large number of students not involved in Greek Life. NC State is actually in the process of renovating Greek Court.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club or activity for everyone! No matter your interest, NC State has it. If they don't, grab some of your friends and start your own club.

Great for these types of students

NC State is great for people who want to step out of their comfort zone, meet a lot of new people, be challenged, and make the most out of their college experience.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every year we camp out for tickets to the NC State vs UNC mens basketball camp. It is a very fun time that everyone participates in. We also raise a lot of money for a variety of causes by building houses in our brickyard and living in them for a week. We have an agriculture week were they keep animals in our brickyard. They also give a lot of free food away all the time!

Bang for the buck

NC State is fairly expensive if you are out of state; however, they offer a wide variety of loans, grants, and scholarships to help cover the cost. It is not very expensive if you are in state.

What to do for fun

Raleigh is a great city. There are a lot of concerts and free events that you can attend. There are also a lot of bars and clubs for you to go to with friends. House parties are always a great option too. However, the best part about NC State is defiantly the sporting events.

Food and Dining

The food could be better. The dining halls are not wonderful, but they also feed a whole lot of people. The new atrium has a variety of food with a changing menu. They are currently renovating the student center which will hold new dining options in the future.

Dorm Life

I have lived in a dorm for 3 years. 2 of those years I worked as a Resident Advisor. Living in the dorm is a great way to meet a lot of different people. They have programs to help you adjust to college life, become aware of campus resources, and meet new people.

Academic Rigor

NC State is challenging, but the school offers many different programs to help you be successful. There are walk in tutoring centers for chemistry and physics, individual tutors for a large variety of classes, as well as supplemental instruction classes.

Tips for prospective students

Live on campus your freshman year and get involved with as many activities as you can.

In three sentences

NC State is a large school with a small school feel. You can walk around campus and always see a familiar face. There are always new people to meet as well.

Erin

12/26/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 5 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

The College of Engineering is consistently rated among the best, but education, life sciences and humanities and social sciences are also great! N.C. State is great for students who are motivated to succeed, can balance their extracurriculars with their academics, and aren't intimidated by a big campus (there are around 30,000 students)!

Tips for prospective students

You will need to have or develop proper time management skills as the atmosphere at N.C. State can be diverting due to the many opportunities to get involved on campus, meeting friends and other social activities, athletic events, etc. It is key to stay on top of your academics and remember that this is the most important part of your college experience because how much you apply yourself and strive to succeed academically will certainly influence the opportunities and prospects you'll have upon graduation.

Bang for the buck

N.C. State is one of the cheapest public schools within the North Carolina University system, and students graduate from here with the distinction of having received a great and beneficial education.

Am enjoying being here

I like the atmosphere that N.C. State has to offer, along with its variety of student societies and activities that anyone is free to join or participate in. The teachers are helpful and friendly and other students are also welcoming; you will find much diversity among the students here and there are always opportunities to get involved and meet people!

Am learning a lot

I have acquired a lot of new knowledge regarding both of my majors and my minor. There are so many classes to choose from, both within your major and in terms of electives or non-degree courses, so that although there are set requirements in order to complete your degree, you have a lot of variety in classes within and outside degrees and can tailor your degree to fit your interests.

Freshman at NC State

I have been on campus for quite a few months and have not bumped into any trouble. I have had a few alerts here and there, but the issue is usually taken care of quickly.

Clubs and Activities

There are numerous clubs that are offered and the campus is always full of activity. Passing by the free expression tunnel, I see many things going on throughout the week.

Great for these types of students

Any student planning to major in engineering. The program is great and has a project where a team of students must design and construct a product.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

If you come to NC State, you WILL pass through the Free Expression Tunnel. The tunnel is always changing day to day, anyone can paint decorate the tunnel in any means as long as it is not offensive.

Bang for the buck

Definitely worth the money; education and experience obtained is great.

What to do for fun

Talley offers a down stairs Wolf Den, where you can rent out controllers for Xbox and PS3. There's ping-pong, air hockey, and more. The library has its own gaming areas and there's always the movie theater at Witherspoon.

Food and Dining

There are several places that offer food: Dining Halls, Cafe Shops, the Atrium, and the Creamery. The dining halls offer various food, and is similar to a buffet. The Atrium is where most students drop by to grab a bite to eat, especially when they are in a hurry. The Creamery, located in the library, offers on-campus made ice cream.

Dorm Life

The dorms at State are decent. There are various styles: Suite or Hall. The dorms are spread out over campus. Easy to get to class. Recommended to stay at a dorm Freshman year, get the experience and meet new people. Have a choice of random roommate or find a friend who's coming to State.

Academic Rigor

Depending on the teachers, the course can be easy or difficult. Offers on -campus courses and online courses, each with their own advantages. The college provides student reviews of the teachers so that other students can determine who they want to have.

Tips for prospective students

To incoming freshman, if you have the chance, live on campus; the dorm life is where you will get to experience any college. Make sure you balance your time between homework and having fun. Talk to people; this will make classes a lot easier. Otherwise, enjoy your time at State.

In three sentences

NC State is a great place to start your college education. A university that offers many subjects; and if you're undecided, there are many programs that will help you make your decision. Recommended for any engineer majors.

Katie from Durham, NC

11/24/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Because the campus is so close to downtown Raleigh and a railroad track runs through it, there has been a growing rate of crime within the past few years. This is not a good thing by any means, but if one takes care not to be alone on campus after dark and know how to be safe, it is not a problem. Always lock your room and your car, as you would anywhere else. Just because you are in the campus bubble does not mean it is impenetrable to crime. The campus police are vigilant, and the campus escort service runs throughout the entire night if you need a safe ride from the library to your room or anything like that. I have been picked up a number of times by a nice officer on duty and while I have friends who are hesitant to bother the campus police, they want you to call them for a ride and be safe.

Greek Life

I myself cannot speak to this particular topic very well, but I do know Greek Life is a big deal at NC State. I am not in a sorority, but I have many friends who are and they love it. I have been to many frat parties and even tailgated with some of the bros as I like to call them. While it is fun if you are in it, it is definitely an elitist experience that costs money and excludes others from certain friend circles. While this stereotype does not run rampant at NC State, it still proves true sometimes.

Clubs and Activities

For those who want to join clubs and activities, there are many available options. I myself participated in the Cooking Club freshman year and am now on a committee to help organize the College of Design/College of Textiles joint fashion show in the Spring called Art to Wear. There is never a lack of extracurriculars and students who want to get involved will have no difficulty doing so.

Great for these types of students

Great for students who love the environment, science, design, textiles and who want to make a difference in the world. The research opportunities at state are countless and there is a large focus on the environment, natural resources, and preservation not only in those particular fields, but in the colleges of Design, Textiles and Engineering this focus continues.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Tailgating is a big deal at NC State and, to put it lightly and borrow a quote from my brother, it is the most redneck thing I have ever seen. This is perhaps an exaggeration, but the abundance of pick up trucks, corn hole boards, coolers full of beer and North Carolina flags flying over the NC State fairgrounds where football tailgating takes place makes it a most memorable and enjoyable experience. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming to fellow tailgaters. It is a must do on the NC State bucket list.

Bang for the buck

NC State's in-state tuition fees are very reasonable for students who are residence of North Carolina. It is much higher for out of state students, but there are numerous scholarship opportunities to be taken advantage of. As a student responsible for paying for my own education, I can say I am very glad I stayed in state and attend such a respected university.

What to do for fun

Students can go downtown, go bowling or grab food on Hillsborough Street, catch a movie at the student cinema, participate in craft activities or plays at the Crafts Center on campus, go tailgating at football games, see soccer, volleyball and basketball games, visit the gym, take a group fitness class, hang out in the brickyard, people watch at the library, have a picnic or sunbath in the Court of the Carolinas, meet friends for coffee, go to concerts, join a club, volunteer and do many, many more things.

Food and Dining

I would never tell anyone attending NC State that the dining hall food is very good. The homemade ice cream and peanut butter you can grind yourself are definitely the highlights of the dining hall experience for me. However, there are great coffee shops, ice cream parlors, and fast food options on campus that students can use their meal plans at.

Dorm Life

At such a large school, the Inner Residence Council and each dorm and hall make it a point to have community building exercises. Freshmen should be sure to live on central campus in a predominately freshmen dorm for the best possible experience.

Academic Rigor

It really depends on what classes you are taking. I would say compared to schools my friends attended, I had it easier. When I was an architecture major however, this was definitely not the case as those classes are very difficult and time consuming. While not every class is going to challenge or stretch your mind, you can be sure of having knowledgeable professors and a great overall education.

Tips for prospective students

Work hard in high school and be especially mindful of the essay portions of the application. Make sure you research your potential major thoroughly because at NC State, you typically are admitted immediately to that school and do not want to have to go through the transfer process.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is an incredible university with a high job placement rate after graduation. Known especially for its engineering, veterinary, design and textiles programs, the academics in those fields are extremely rigorous. It is located only a few miles from the heart of downtown Raleigh and provides many extracurricular opportunities for students.

Melissa from Charlotte, NC

07/18/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

There is something called wolfallert, which sends you a text whenever something fishy happens. The campus is downtown raleigh, so there is the occasional robbery, but usually it's on the very outskirts of campus. And at night.

Greek Life

Plenty of that as well.

Clubs and Activities

Too many to list.

Great for these types of students

Anyone.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Gotta find that out on your own ;)

Bang for the buck

In state tuition isn't bad. Def wouldn't suggest out of state though...very pricey.

Not great (especially Fountain dining hall), but when there's nothing else to eat, what can you do? Most of the food is pretty healthy at least. Breakfast is the best meal by far.

Dorm Life

There are curfews and visitation hours, but they vary dorm to dorm. Again, living on central campus would be ideal.

Academic Rigor

It all depends on your major and class/professor. Look online to see if your professor is more difficult than others. Engineering is probably the most difficult department.

Tips for prospective students

If you live on campus, try to live in a main campus dorm such as wood or tucker. Get to know your professors, you never know when you may need them for a letter of recomendation. Also, get a good meal plan.

In three sentences

NC State is a large school and somewhat easy to get lost in the crowd. Even so, the professors are for the most part very friendly and the student population is very diverse and interesting. There is something here for almost anyone in my opinion.

Katherine from Raleigh, NC

10/21/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Greek Life

I am not apart of Greek Life on campus, but I know a lot of people who are. There are tons of sororities and fraternities, and it seems like almost every girl as a Great Women Go Greek button. It seems very fun and rewarding. If you're into that sort of thing, NCSU has it.

Clubs and Activities

I have found the clubs at NCSU to be very rewarding. The Women's Center on campus has given me a lot of opportunities to learn more about women's studies and social advocacy, in addition to helping me choose what major I want to be in. I highly recommend getting involved on campus. There is still so much I could get involved with, and so much stuff I don't even know about.

Great for these types of students

NCSU is great for students who care about their education, but also like to have fun. I don't think anyone here studies for 20 hours a day and only has a life dedicated to academics. I think it's a mix of great students and also individuals with interesting social lives. If you like a bit of both, NCSU will be great for you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Free Expression Tunnel is a place on campus where you can spray paint anything. Walking through it is very interesting. There is something new every day. Not everything that is spray painted is very tasteful, but it's funny either way. Bricks are also a big thing here. You will find them everywhere. People trip on them, people steal them, people hate/love them. We like bricks a lot.

Bang for the buck

I didn't think I would end up having any school spirit, but I actually have come to like NCSU a lot. I think the professors, while perhaps not as tough as higher level colleges, know what they're talking about. All of my professors seem very knowledgeable and I really feel like I have learned a lot in the few weeks I've been in classes. If it's education you're looking for, I definitely recommend NCSU. I feel like I'm actually learning something here rather than at high school. Even in classes with 200 people, I still feel like the professors care about me. In terms of clubs, NCSU excels as well. I currently work with the Women's Center on campus and it has been very rewarding.

What to do for fun

There is a lot to do on campus and off campus for fun. There are literally hundreds of student organizations as well as numerous sororities/fraternities. I was quickly able to find multiple clubs that I could join that also tied in with my interests. Off campus, there is a lot to do as well. Being that NC State is located in Raleigh, the capitol of NC, there is are numerous things to do. Downtown Raleigh has a bunch of amazing local restaurants, stores, and events. There are shows you can find every week, music festivals, parades, etc. It's very hard to stay bored.

Food and Dining

There a lot of dining options here. There are 2 dining halls and I think 3 buildings that house restaurants and stores. While there is a large selection, most of the food isn't that good. It's commonly known that most of the dining hall food goes right through you and the food served at the restaurants isn't that much better. To be honest, even with all the options, eating on campus can get kind of boring. I usually eat most of my meals off campus or I make my food myself. I recommend getting the cheapest meal plan.

Dorm Life

Dorm life just depends on what you decide to go with. There is a lot of variability in what kind of dorm you can live in. I live at a dorm that used to be an old hotel (Avent Ferry), so my room is huge and I have my own bathroom. However, the dorm is very far from the main campus and there isn't a real sense of community here. I have heard that suite styles are nice, because although you have a smaller room, there is a bigger possibility of making friends with others at your suite. In addition, most suites at NCSU are closer to classes and the dining halls. I like living at Avent Ferry, but there are times where I wish it didn't take me ten minutes just to reach the campus itself.

Academic Rigor

In my opinion, the classes aren't hard a lot. There might be a large number of things you have to do, but it's not hard. In fact, I much prefer the teaching style of my professors than my high school teachers. The work that most professors assign will make sense. It doesn't feel like busy work, and it will most likely help you understand the class a lot better. Some projects are hard, but only the ones that really make you think about the topic.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure that you realize how huge the campus is. Keep in mind where your classes will be and know that you will have to plan around simply reaching your class. It's very likely that you will be a 15 minute walk from each class. In addition, you will probably have to use the bus system a lot. Make sure that you get involved as well. It sounds obvious, but you truly do feel connected to your campus when you participate with events going on. Even if it's just one club, it can help you a lot and make you realize what your passions are or who you want to be around. NC State is a big place, but you can definitely find your niche.

In three sentences

NC State is a huge sprawling campus with a lot of diversity. There is a heavy emphasis on technical majors, but there is still a lot of different people with different focuses. It is not the easiest to navigate or the prettiest school, but it is still a very good college.

HappyNCStateStudent

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Intelligent students who are laid-back and unpretentious.

Tips for prospective students

Research the school website as much as possible in order to be fully prepared your first year there. There are a ton of opportunities at a school this size, so make sure you know your major's requirements inside and out, and have a general idea of which student groups you may want to join.

Bang for the buck

Consistently rated one of the best value colleges in the nation and has a ton of programs to help students with the cost of college.

Will learn a lot

Don't be afraid to challenge yourself, and find a group of friends who will encourage and help you academically.

WOLF! PACK!

Great for anyone, especially those into science, math, or engineering.

Tips for prospective students

Ask around about what teachers to be sure to get, and who to avoid. Go to your teachers office hours, and make sure to get off campus every now and then.

Bang for the buck

Its expensive, but its college, they all are. I feel like I'm getting a good education and am really enjoying my experience.

Am enjoying being here

I love NC State. There are plenty of great places to go exploring within walking distance of campus, and they provide free bus passes to all students, so downtown Raleigh is never out of reach! The people are very nice, and the classes are interesting too.

Am learning a lot

The teachers here are great (for the most part)! Every teacher I have had so far (including the bad ones) are always more then happy to meet with you outside of class to explain anything that you do not understand, or to help you on your homework.

Larissa from Belcamp, MD

09/08/2011

Reviewer is A past student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

This school is particularly good for agriculture and related majors, as well as engineering and those related to it. Those two programs are particularly outstanding, though they are the more difficult to succeed in.

Tips for prospective students

The professors are generally helpful if you show that you really want to put in the effort. Also, most lab TAs either don't speak English well or have very thick accents, but that doesn't detract too much from the labs themselves. Either way, you will always find help if you look for it, especially with the SI sessions and tutoring. It's good to also create a network of students to work with each class. You'll find that they show up in classes with you again, giving you the advantage of knowing someone. And finally, read your textbook, notes, and anything they give you. It's a lot of work, but it pays off.

Bang for the buck

Their programs are outstanding. The tuition is a little high because of cut funding and they don't always make the best use of what little money they have, but it is still a very good school and worth the money. They are also good about financial aid. I got into this school as an out of state student and paid less than I would have had I stayed at an in state school in my home state.

Did enjoy being here

The atmosphere of the campus is great, I don't remember a single time I didn't feel safe walking around, even at night. Despite being a big university, you discover quickly that you run into at least a few people in each class that you know.

Did learn a lot

The classes are difficult, especially the introductory weed-out classes, but you feel like you learned something in the end. There are a lot of big classes, but also many ways to connect with other students or get help.

Sarah from Denver, NC

N.C. State is a great school for seeking degrees in engineering or agriculture. They formed for those two fields, and are a well respected name in them.

Tips for prospective students

Going to a large school in the capital of North Carolina can be intimidating, and you can feel like just another number sometimes. But remember there is always other students around you, join clubs or live in a village. Both are good ways to meet other students and find good friends. Also, it is always a good idea to try and get to know your professors, if they know your name and face, they will be more willing to help you. Don't be afraid to talk to them, they were students once too, they know what you are going through.

Bang for the buck

North Carolina State University is number nine on the Princeton Review Best Overall Public University Value for 2011. That alone proves NCSU is good for your wallet. With NCSU being a top notch public North Carolina Public University, it's economical and a good education.

Am enjoying being here

I have met awesome people at school. With NCSU being so large, it is easy to find someone with the same interests as you and there are tons of clubs for you to meet them in. Because of the clubs and learning villages NCSU provides you can get more personal attention than you think you would at a campus of this size.

Am learning a lot

I learn something new everyday. Classes are hard, of course, but they really do prepare you for the future. Professors are great, and will help you learn whatever you don't understand fully, just ask them!

Hannah from Trinity, NC

12/22/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Tips for prospective students

Apply early, and as soon as you hear back from all the schools you applied to, decide then! If you choose this school submit your housing application early to get a good dorm! It's a great place to be, and if you like going to football games you should definitely consider NC State! Consider what you want to major in, and if you're not sure go to First Year College!

Nia from Durham, NC

12/26/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

If you like huge campuses then NC State is for you. This is not for students who get overwhelmed by large amounts of people. If you like walking this is the university for you. Some classes are 15 min walk away and some classes are a bus ride away. If you don't like brick designs this school is not for you. The whole campus is filled and paved with bricks. Some people get tired of them. If you want countless opportunities then this is definitely the university for you.

Tips for prospective students

Check out the campus before you make this decision. NC State offers tours and also open house where you get to learn so much about the university. Make sure the major you declare when you apply has a great program for you. For example, NC State has one of the best engineering schools but some people don't like their teaching styles and others do.

Bang for the buck

You definitely get quality for your dollars. I have to honestly say that NC State is a great university when you are talking about academics and they help a lot of students that can not attend because of their financial issue. The only problem is NC States tuition is constantly increasing little by little. They would increase it one year the once you think that is it, they increase it again.

Am enjoying being here

I love it here because State offers many opportunities and resources. They have organizations on campus that will meet any of your interests and they constantly have employers come to the university to give students helpful tips on job searching. I know for the College of Management they have workshops everyday put on by employers. I also enjoy how State is constantly trying to improve. They never stop expanding and we are already the largest university in North Carolina.

Am learning a lot

NC State offers so many classes and in each class you learn a lot if you apply yourself. Just because this is a large university does not mean that each class size is going to include 300 people in it. You will be surprised that most class sizes are about 20 people. So you will receive the help you need from the professors.

this is a first class school with nationally recognized engineering program which is my major.

What to do for fun

get involved. use the gym. check out everything so you can find s organizations or groups that fit for you.

Food and Dining

i got the meal plan where i can each anywhere i want whenever i want. i really like the flexibility. the food is pretty good but nothing to get too excited about.

Dorm Life

i ended up with a great roommate. we get along really well and even share a major. we don't do everything together but do spend social and academic time together. we plan to continue to room together next year too. the rest of our suite mates never come out of their rooms so we don't have much interactin with them.

Academic Rigor

courses are difficult but if you keep up with the work and seek help (which is readily available) if you need it you will do fine.

Tips for prospective students

get involved in some extracurricular activities. that is the best way to meet all different kinds of people. stay physically active. the fitness center is unbelievably well equipped.

In three sentences

ncsu is great! overall, the professors are really good and plenty of extra help is available if you need it. the student body is friendly and there is always something going on so it is easy to get involved in campus life.

Kim from Charlotte, NC

06/11/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The university does a good job at announcing when and where a crime happens, but they usually do not catch who does the crime. Safety escorts are available, however. Keep the phone number saved into your cell phone and walk in groups after it turns dark.

Clubs and Activities

There's so many clubs it's kind of ridiculous. It's easy to join and find out about them since they publicize them on the bricks with chalk, the newspaper, or flyers in buildings. If you don't like one club, you can always try a different one.

Great for these types of students

Any type of student would fit in at NC State. There's more than 33,000 students here and there's a large amount of clubs and you will definitely find people who you just click with.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's a whole book of traditions! A popular one is camping out the night to get a ticket for the UNC vs. NCSU basketball game.

Bang for the buck

Financial assistance is pretty easy to get. The in state tuition is super cheap compared to a lot of other public schools and it's a great university with a great staff.

What to do for fun

Hillsborough street has a lot of dining places which are pretty cheap, and a bowling alley. Cameron Village is a shopping area fifteen minutes away by foot and it has a lot of neat stores and restaurants to check out. Sporting events are super popular. There is also clubs, a lot of them! You're bound to find one that you like! Also, if you live in a dorm, there are bound to be events that your RA posts up that you can go and check out, usually for free!

Food and Dining

Dining halls provided decent food. Sometimes the food is absolutely delicious, other times, the food was just edible. Other places in Talley or the Atrium were pretty good. It gets tricky trying to get everything to fit under 5.85, but it's doable.

Dorm Life

I lived in Owen Hall, a hall style residence hall and I loved it! Yes, sometimes it would get loud and the bathrooms can get messy on the weekends, but the atmosphere was great. It was nice having conversations with others in the middle of the hall. Every week, we would have a game night to catch up and eat. You meet wonderful people and get to bond.

Academic Rigor

I only took three AP classes in high school, so transitioning was a little difficult. It' was hard for me to sit down and study, but it is definitely do-able. If you try to attend every class and study on a regular basis, earning A's and B's is attainable.

Tips for prospective students

Remember to study hard and manage your time wisely. Find a place where you can do some independent studying quietly, whether it be in the library or in a lounge in your residence hall. It helps to create study groups from classes, so try to get to know the people in your classes!

Amanda from Belmont, NC

07/10/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Krispy Kreme Challenge is probably the oddest tradition we have. Participants start at the Bell Tower, run two miles to the Krispy Kreme, eat a dozen doughnuts and then run back to the Bell Tower. However, the only way you can complete the challenge is if you keep the doughnuts down.

Bang for the buck

N.C. State is a wonderful place to be a part of. The experiences and exposure students get is worth every penny. Furthermore, the service the students give back to the state of North Carolina by being students is priceless.

What to do for fun

Be involved in campus because there are a lot of cool things going on with clubs and organizations. First Friday is really fun in downtown Raleigh and there is a night scene for everyone. William Umstead State Park is nearby and is a great weekend trip location. Raleigh is within a few hours drive of the mountains and the beach, so pick one!

Food and Dining

Although people usually bash dining, the food is very good and there are vegan and vegetarian options. You can eat as healthily as you want and University Dining has a nutritionist on staff. Also, the milk used in the dining halls was made by the cows on campus.

Dorm Life

There is a lot to do on campus and the resident advisers are friendly.

Academic Rigor

The lower level classes can be a breeze, but the upper levels can catch you off guard. The sciences are tough but the research is top-notch. Definitely come to do research!

Tips for prospective students

Take English 101 and Chemistry 101, even if you place out of them. They will help you more than you just thinking you know what's going on. Live on campus your first year. You will meet so many more people and have tons more fun because you will be near everything happening on campus. Try everything! You many think you know what you like and what you want to do, but you never know. There is so much going on on and off campus you'll certainly find something you like to do.

In three sentences

This is a great place for getting a real-world experience and meet a lot of different people from around the world. The professors are really knowledgeable and there is some cool research going on. The University has so many connections within North Carolina and the world there is definitely something there for you!

Hannah from Burlington, NC

The police are always around, they have the blue light security poles. I always feel safe

Clubs and Activities

So many clubs! Oh my gosh, over 700 clubs, you are bound to find plenty to get involved in.

Great for these types of students

The school has a great LGBT center

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The school is really big on the krispy kreme run, also you are given a tradition keeper book at orientation which contains over 60 traditions and activities to participate in.

What to do for fun

All sorts of things! Get involved, thats all I have to say!

Food and Dining

The cafeterias are pretty good, sometimes the food isn't banging, but sometimes it is great! They always have vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, options.

Dorm Life

I am in Carroll Hall, and while it is the smallest dorm, I do love it. I did random roommate assigning and it worked out perfect!

Tips for prospective students

Make sure your high school transcript contains plenty of maths or sciences. Take AP test whenever possible. If you are sending in a recommendation letter, it should be from a math or science teacher. Be prepared to be a number and to make yourself stand out.

In three sentences

This school is phenomenal! They are very dedicated to their students, do not let the size fool you! They are focused on providing an enjoyable, rigorous, memory-worthy, and intellectual environment.

Bishal from Raleigh, NC

07/17/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Since the following year, campus crime has been increased by 100%. There were rarely any here since my freshman year, and now I am receiving emails every week, and sometimes multiple emails per week reporting of crimes that occurred on campus, or right next to campus. Oh, and there is the state prison less than 5 miles from campus.

Greek Life

A huge organization that is its own community. I have been to many different activities hosted by many different fraternities and sororities, and have never regretted anything done with a single one of them.

Clubs and Activities

There are clubs and activities that range from sports to major specific. Intramural sports to compete to find the best at various sports where there are men, and co-ed teams. There are organizations for every major, and even Fraternity and Sorority organizations for even more activities to do.

Great for these types of students

All types of students are a perfect fit here. For those genius students, you will meet other students who are also just as knowledgeable, if not even more, and can relate to. For those who are very sociable, there are so many clubs, organizations, and other activities to do, you wouldn't have time for all of it!! Also NCSU does have a large LGBT community as well which is great in helping spread awarness and diversity. We are big to make sure that everyone feels equal here and everyone has all the same opportunities.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The wolf ears right next to the library is super cool. There are several others also such as the free expression tunnel, and the Carolina Courthouse yard.

Bang for the buck

Have not regretted a day that I have been here.

What to do for fun

There are so many activities to do throughout the year, I couldn't list them all. Besides general things to do around the campus because it has been there for many years now, there are activities that are held once a year, and once every couple years that are growing. One such example is the Krispy Kreme Challange (youtube it). There really isn't a weekend or a month when something big isn't happening.

Food and Dining

I have noticed that recently the food/dining has improved very much. They are open later hours, and have better options than before, but I rarely eat on campus now because I prefer off campus meals. If i was eating meals on campus now, I would give it a 4, but since I am inputting on when I ate on campus, I give it a 2.

Dorm Life

For three years I stayed in 3 different location on campus. My first year, at Owen was amazing. I wouldn't take back anything. The process for housing that year was awful. I tried to move into Bragaw, and was denied because apparently I hadn't filled out the housing applications, which I know both my roommate and I had filled. So I ended up being forced to move into a dorm surrounded in the Woods (Wood Hall) and hated it. Then I moved into Wolf Village, an on campus apartment which was great as I finally had my own room. Once you move into your own room, there is now way you could ever move back into a dorm.

Academic Rigor

By no means has any of my classes been easy. NCSU's Computer Engineering is rated top 15 in the nation (not sure exactly where, maybe 11th or 12th). I have struggled in most of my classes here, and have had to repeat some as well.

Tips for prospective students

To gain the most out of social experience for your freshman year, live on campus, and not just anywhere on campus, go for main campus in dorms such as owen, tucker, caroll, and other in the center of campus. Do not get too caught up with social experience though, remember to focus on school as that is what your primary focus is here for. The best advice that I wish was given to me is to spend time wisely. Back in high school, I finished all my homework in class and was free after school and weekends all the time. Don't expect that here. Do not wait until the weekend to do homework, or wait until the night before to start studying. These were all mistakes I made my first year here. Start on homework as soon as they are given to you, and you do have teacher's assistant and the teacher to help you when you have questions. My homeworks' these days take about 12 hours each, and it includes about 8 problems usually. Now imagine that with 3 or 4 other classes.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is my home. I am proud to say I am a student here and will be ecstatic to say I will be an alumni here. Before coming here, I had no idea what it would be like here as an individual who knew maybe ten people at the most; I couldn't be happier with my experience here in all aspects including social, coursework, and even professional.

Ashley from Knightdale, NC

NCSU has it's own police force which is always around if needed. Don't speed on campus, you will get caught.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Humans vs. Zombies is an event where students chase each other around campus trying to 'kill' each other with Nerf guns.

Bang for the buck

Tuition isn't the cheapest around, but from it you get many things from it. Your student ID provides endless services on campus including an impeccable gym.

What to do for fun

There are many many clubs for every type of student. There are often times where you are walking across campus and find something to do accidentally. Downtown Raleigh is within walking distance and offers many other things to do.

Food and Dining

There are many options available to students when it comes to food, including Chick-Fil-A and Taco Bell. The meal plan isn't too bad either. The dining halls have a great variety of food including vegan and vegetarian options.

Dorm Life

I live in Lee Residence Hall, it is a suite stall dorm and I love it. There are many Living and Learning communities which are a great addition to the community. Sometimes people get loud and it's irritating, but it's not too bad.

Academic Rigor

For every class I have attended, a grade of at least a B+ is completely attainable with a proper amount of studying. There are many tutorial services provided from the university. Make sure to attend office hours is possible.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you check out the list of majors AND minors. Also, look at the grade distributions for professors before signing up for their classes. Teachers can make or break you for a certain class.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is a school of many diverse facets. It is a small city within a city. Between academics, clubs, sports, and much more, NC State provides many options for students of every interest group.

Rebecca from Lincolnton, NC

So far, I feel very safe. Whenever I'm out late, the campus is relatively well lit. There is also an escort service by the campus police, in case you feel nervous walking home by yourself.

Clubs and Activities

It's been a month and I've already joined the English Club, the History Club, the newspaper, and the literary magazine. The clubs really want members, so the first few weeks they will recruit like crazy, so it's very easy to join.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Packapalooza is a beginning tradition at State. It is very fun and I highly recommend attending it. They close off a street in Raleigh and vendors and clubs come out and give away free food and free stuff.

Bang for the buck

I think that State is definitely worth it, especially in the STEM program. State has an awesome program that is recognized nationwide. The English program which I am in is also very good, just less prestigious. State also will help you study abroad which is awesome.

What to do for fun

It is very easy to have fun on campus. There is a movie theater that plays cheap movies every weekend and there are tons of options at the gym to play. You could also join clubs that do a lot of fun stuff.

Food and Dining

The food in the dining hall where I meet is okay. It isn't bad; it just gets repetitive. The Atrium had a lot better options and the meal plan is accepted there.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is pretty good. While the room I'm in is rather small, it is easy to make it comfortable and cozy. The walk to main campus can be tedious, but I'm very close to a dining hall. There are lounges on every floor, some with kitchens, some with TVs, etc.

Academic Rigor

So far my classes have required a lot of effort. I am an English major, so in my field I do a lot of reading. Friends of mine in the Engineering or Sciences have to spend hours on Chemistry or Calculus a day.

Tips for prospective students

Only being here for a month or so, I would suggest to prospective students that they should visit campus. If possible have a current student show you around; it's much easier to get a feel of campus that way. Also, try the food or visit a dorm. These are the places you will spend the most cumulative time at.

In three sentences

NC State so far has been a very good school to attend. The professors are very willing to help and the dorms are not too bad. It is very easy to become involved on campus also.

goPACK

04/13/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

Relaxed Sports involved - we love to support our pack!

Tips for prospective students

Go somewhere that you know you will love. Don't be afraid to go on your own or father from home than you first decided. And most of all don't be worried about college. There is a lot going on, but you learn fast and it turns out to just be the next step in your life that you love more everyday.

Bang for the buck

Tuition is increasing, but it is a great school for the price. If you compare NC State to other college you would be surprised at the differences.

Am enjoying being here

NC State has many ways you can get involved. They host various events to allow students to mingle and meet new people. There is also a wide variety of clubs and sports that reach out to everyone.

Am learning a lot

I love NC State. It is a great school, with great teachers. All the professors work with you so you can get the best college experience possible. This is defiantly a college you want at the top of your list.

Mary from Huntersville, NC

0 out of 3 people found this review useful.
2 people found it offensive.
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Great for these types of students

Hicks, engineers, design school hipsters, Australians (so many Australians!), North Carolinians in general

Tips for prospective students

If you are not engineering or design, try Chapel Hill instead.

Bang for the buck

Co-ops and undergrad research galore. The engineering school here pretty much guarantees you a job after college. Not so much hope for everyone else. Then again, why would you major in anything else?

Am enjoying being here

Lots of hicks and bros. It's a total sausage fest. But there are some gems, which makes those cool people you meet all the more worthwhile. Also, there are so many kids from Wake County here.

Am learning a lot

Some teachers are great, some are just awful. Most places are like that. In the engineering department, the rule of thumb is to not take a TA's class if the TA has 3 or less letters in their last name. It's worked for me so far. Talking to current students also really helps in picking GOOD (good--not easy) teachers. The German program is also REAL GOOD

Kelly from Wendell, NC

08/02/2011

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Will enjoy being here

I am excited to take advantage of all NC State has to offer. The campus is always growing and improving. NC State is the largest college in North Carolina, it's student population is very diverse. There are many clubs and organizations I am also excited to check out!

Alex

08/27/2011

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Will enjoy being here

After having a tour of the campus and dorms, it looks like there will never be a dull moment. It has one of the best engineering programs and the cost is moderate. I am definitely looking forward to going on another tour this October.

Katherine from Norfolk, VA

09/08/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Tips for prospective students

Try to get out and do clubs or sports and try to not be shy like I am. It is alot to handle at first but the first week you are here you don't even have class it is just a bunch of activities. GO out and try things.

Bang for the buck

As long as you get scholarships and financial aid it isn't that bad.

Am enjoying being here

I am from out of state so I don't know anyone except for my room mate and she is gone a lot. It is hard but I'm doing lots of clubs so hopefully I will make friends soon.

Christopher from Cary, NC

All the people are amazing, campus is really nice, and there is always something going on.

Am learning a lot

Even in the first semester I am learning a lot. The teachers want you to succeed and work with you outside of class. I am in the first year college program and they have helped guide me towards finding a major really well

Catherine from Raeford, NC

11/15/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

hard working those willing to expand their views of the world

Tips for prospective students

Tour the school more than once. Go to an open house and go on a private tour. You will get more out of the experience and more of a feel for the campus. Also, if you do attend, make sure you look into who your professor is. They have a great system that shows you the ratings students give the professors each year.

Bang for the buck

The costs of the school's fees and tuition are well worth it. All the necessary resources are available for a decent price.

Am enjoying being here

Not only are the professors more than willing to help you out, the people here are so friendly and accepting. I admit the work is a challenge but it is worth it! The campus is beautiful and I love all of the events they have throughout the semester. I recommend this college to anyone who does not mind working hard and loves having a supportive environment. I guarantee you, even if you find yourself struggling, there are so many resources to use fo help.

Am learning a lot

All the information I need pertaining to my major is supplied to me in my classes. The professors provide their email and their office hours to all students in the class.

Caroline from Taylorsville, NC

This university is great for people who wants to get a great education but also whats to have a good time! There are so many opportunity's in Raleigh!

Tips for prospective students

If you want to attend a large university with a small town feel this is the college for you!

Bang for the buck

NCSU is a very affordable university especially for the quality of education they offer! Though I would advise buying your textbooks from somebody other than the university bookstore because the textbooks are usually more expensive from there!

Am enjoying being here

I love the campus and its people. Everybody I have meet in my classes and around campus have been really nice. The university always has something interesting going on around campus, so its hard to be bored when you have free time!

Am learning a lot

The professors a great here, if you are struggle with a concept they will help you during their office hours. The professors at NCSU want their students to not only to pass their class but to understand the material.

Nicholas from Kernersville, NC

According to the administrative side, the student housing is adequate between the fraternity housing and dorm rooms.

Academic Rigor

In my chosen field of study, it ranks top in the state. Again, I have not attended the college; just looking in to it.

Tips for prospective students

I would recommend attending a new student seminar and participating in the campus tour.

In three sentences

I visited the campus for informational purposes, and found that I am not ready to attend in my chosen field of study. The requirements are a little higher than other universities. The recruiting personnel are both helpful and friendly.

Kimberlin from Graham, NC

02/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

there are a few moments when bad things happen, but campus police patrol the grounds at all times watching for suspicious activities. also, there is a safety escort that will come and pick you up and take you anywhere else on campus if you don't feel safe walking.

What to do for fun

football and basketball games are really popular, however there are parties, dances, a movie theatre, carnivals, parades, etc. and if you can't find it on campus, we are only about 10 mins. from downtown raleigh where you are sure to find some entertainment.

Food and Dining

there is a chick-fil-a where you can use your meal plan so that's always good. there are some really great places to eat on campus. the dining halls have their good and bad moments.

Dorm Life

some of the suite-style freshman dorms are a little small and need to be renovated. hall style dorms are a little bigger, have nicer furniture and a sink in the room. the cleaning staff are very friendly. co-ed buildings and floors can get a little noisy sometimes.

Academic Rigor

the difficulty of your courses varies a lot based on your college, major, and professors. some professors assign homework every class that is pretty easy while others have 2 or 3 majors assignments for the semester that can be challenging.

Tips for prospective students

always do your homework! also, professors have a habit of teaching and saying this concept/example will be on the test; its good to make a note of it. also, if you have free time, go out and meet new people, it will make college a breeze.

In three sentences

best place for students who live in nc. this school has the best teachers, events and the most school spirit. also, the convenience to anything you may need off campus is wonderful; you are well taken care of.

Arielle from Smithfield, NC

There are stores everywhere either on campus or walking distance from it, and there are lots of different clubs and activities going on all over campus as well.

Food and Dining

There are plenty of dining opportunities on campus with lots of different choices so that you never have the same thing every day during the week, and they are all in separate buildings so that each one is closest to your classes for convenience.

Dorm Life

There are about four different dorm buildings on central campus that are well within walking distance of all the classes that students staying in those dorms would be attending.

Academic Rigor

The rigor can depend on what teacher you have and definitely on the level of course you are taking. In the higher levels you will be expected to have greater grasp on what you've already learned and not a lot of review is done for those who may not have gotten with the program earlier.

Tips for prospective students

Learn how to stay on task and how to prioritize your time with all the homework, quizzes and test that will be given to you. There are plenty of opportunities to get help if you are struggling in a course, and even opportunities to get a job should you be having trouble seeking one.

In three sentences

I like the school very much with it's diverse teachers and students. Everyone who I have come into contact with has been friendly and the learning environment is top notch. Even though classrooms are usually large, the teachers are more than happy to have you come down and meet them personally so that they can help you in any way they can during the semester.

Andrew from Granite Falls, NC

campus safety is excellence. any time any breech in safety is experienced, a text message is sent to every one.

Greek Life

no experience with this area.

Clubs and Activities

nc state has an club and activity that you could imagine.

Great for these types of students

nc state would be well suited for any student that wants an excellent education.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

the campus has several different traditions such as the krispy kream run, spray painting the expression tunnel, as well as many others.

Bang for the buck

i feel that nc state is a great deal in education. students can get an education as well as being introduced to various cultures. plenty of on campus activities to satisfy the college student.

What to do for fun

students get together to play various sports on campus. there is also a movie theatre on campus that runs recent released movies. students hang out in the library and generalized meeting areas to talk and just relax.

Food and Dining

there are several dining halls that offer a lot of different eating options. the dining hall staff also offers contest as well as different country meals each semester. there are also a lot of restaurant options available.

Dorm Life

i have lived in sullivan dorm this year and love the dorm. i plan to live there again next year.

Academic Rigor

plan to work hard and be challenged while at nc state.

Tips for prospective students

study hard, apply for early admission, and take the sat as well as the act. good luck and best wishes.

In three sentences

nc state is a great college to attend if you are interested in math, science, and engineering. the college also offers other majors but i have no experience with the other areas so i can't give an opinion on those areas.

Chelsey from Winston Salem, NC

02/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Greek Life

greek life here is truly growing pretty rapidly. i am apart of the alpha delta pi sorority here at ncsu and would not give up this experience for the world! i know it seems to outsiders that our greek life isn't at the point where unc's is but it really is getting there!

Clubs and Activities

so so many clubs and activities to choose from! ncsu offers club and intramural sports teams and the gym also offers classes that are free to students. there are clubs for different subjects, such as history or spanish, and interests, such as sadd.

Food and Dining

thank gosh for chic-fil-a!!! since the renovation of the atrium, we now have many more food options which is great! i have only eaten in one of the dining halls, fountain dining hall, once but i really enjoyed my meal there and have added board bucks to my account so i can eat there!

Dorm Life

i lived in university towers my freshman year. i loved it! my roommate was great and was from the same city as me so i got to know her pretty well before moving in. the rooms in ut are bigger and have better furniture than those in lee and sullivan but i have heard that syme is super nice! thats one advantage of being a say student!

Academic Rigor

i think our academic rigor is very on point. i honestly wish some of the oldest teachers, who are about on their death bed, would retire but other than that the teaching staff has been great working with me in and outside of the classroom!

Tips for prospective students

come into college with an open mind. don't settle just for those friends you brought with you but also open your doors to others. college is a whole different experience but i wouldn't change it for the world!

In three sentences

ncsu is a diverse, well-rounded, accommodating, amazing school. coming from a small high school i didn't know what to expect or where i could possibly fit in with 40,000+ students but within a week of starting here, i most certainly did. i have realized honestly that i couldn't see myself as being apart of something greater than the wolfpack!

Patrick from Raleigh, NC

02/29/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

the food and dining is a little below average compared to other schools i have visited. the dining halls are mediocre and although the alternate sources for food provide variety, the quality is not the best.

Dorm Life

the dorm life at nc state was overall pretty good. i did not enjoy living in the dorms personally, but a lot of students like the option.

Academic Rigor

nc state has one of the largest engineering programs in the country. the mechanical engineering concentration has been rated in the top 20 in the country. with this being said, any student who is enrolled in mechanical engineering, like myself, has constant rigorous work to do all the time. it is very challenging but one day it will be worth it.

Scott from Raleigh, NC

lots of emergency poles everywhere with blue lights on top. push a button on them and it calls campus security. very convenient and comforting.

What to do for fun

lots of events especially for the first week of school. do everything you can, but remember what you're there for.

Food and Dining

go to clark dining hall or case for breakfast (it's closed to non-athletes for lunch and dinner). avoid fountain after the first week; they stop showing off so the food goes downhill. everything is edible though.

Dorm Life

the tri-towers are good, sullivan is not so great. haven't lived everywhere. lots of cheap and nice off-campus housing.

Academic Rigor

stem courses are challenging. freshman english course is an abrupt wakeup.

Tips for prospective students

don't get lost in the crowd. there are a lot of people here and it's easy to not stand out. don't be afraid to ask questions in class and talk to instructors before and after classes and during office hours.

Thanh-Thao from Cary, NC

i absolutely love all of the emergency lights and the safety escort. it make me feel a lot safer when walking back to my dorm from work or my late classes.

Greek Life

it is a great way to make friends and get involved within the school. you do a lot of community service and are able to interact with a lot of people.

What to do for fun

i love to play pick up volleyball and take advantage of the wonderful gym we are provided.

Food and Dining

the food is not too great but i love the atrium and talley!

Dorm Life

i love the dorm life. i was able to make a lot of friends and i was able to feel really safe when i am living there.

Academic Rigor

the classes are harder than the basic high school classes, so be prepare to study!

Tips for prospective students

this school is very friendly and one can easily make friends within this environment.

In three sentences

north carolina state university has a great environment for students to make friends and to strive in their studies. it has an amazing teaching staff that are friendly and are willing to help when one has questions. other than the great staff, ncsu has many programs and clubs that suit anybody's preference, whether it is clubs or greek life.

Be prepared. Bring your A game and have a desire to put forth the effort required to succeed.

In three sentences

High academic standing, endowed faculty, and state of the art technology to deliver high-quality education. The academic rigor involved in completing a course is one of the best qualities of the university. A university grounded in research and excelling in academic quality.

Wolfpacker from Apex, NC

03/17/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have blue lights located across the entire campus. If you press one, you are instantly linked to campus police. The university also provides campus safety escorts for late night trips. The campus is always very alive during the school year.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Krispy Kreme Challenge Polar Plunge

Bang for the buck

Even though students are upset about tuition increases, the education we are provided is worth it. The tuition is also a lot less than other institutions.

What to do for fun

There are 600+ registered clubs/organizations. If you don't see one you are interested in you can always start your own!

Food and Dining

NCSU is trying. Dinging is always open for suggestions! The new student center (2014) will have a lot more dining options.

Dorm Life

If you are a first year students and/or in the First Year College program try to stay in Tucker, Owen or Metcalf. Main campus is the best!

Academic Rigor

Like any great institution, NCSU strives for the success of all students.

Tips for prospective students

Go to the brickyard and find a club/organization to join. Ask your RA for help if you are feeling like an outcast (they love to help!) Attend orientation and mingle! If you are a minority student, also attend a Symposium (they are open to everyone, not just minorities! You can move in early too)

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is a great choice for any student. My university values the diversity of each student and welcomes them with open arms. There is a place for everyone on this campus, you're not just a number.

Morgan from Cincinnati, OH

03/26/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Academic Rigor

The engineering program is awesome!

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you make the priority deadline! I missed it by two days, and had to wait until the end of March to hear back. By making the priority deadline, you also are applying for all of their university based scholarships. So, APPLY EARLY!

Gregory from Saint Pauls, NC

There are minor incidents that take place around the campus, but usually the crime is taken care of immediately thanks to our wonderful police staff who are always on the job, daily and nightly.

Greek Life

Lots of Greek life that goes on for those who are interested.

Clubs and Activities

Over 600+ clubs, you are bound to find one you fit in.

Great for these types of students

If you are a person with lots of leadership potential, join SGA or any other organizations around the campus to broaden your experience.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The brick is a book you can get filled out which carries all the traditions a student should try out while here NC State.

Bang for the buck

Yes you do get more bang for your buck because this school loads you with so many fantastic resources.

What to do for fun

Karaoke, Dance, Workout, Sports, Bowling...The list goes on and on...

Food and Dining

There are a lot of choices on campus in which you can eat.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is okay, depending on how you view yourself with other people, they have dorms that fit each type of individual.

Academic Rigor

A little difficult if you don't apply yourself, but hey that's for anything.

Tips for prospective students

Come to NC State with the willingness to take the initiative, do not be afraid to speak up. There will be tough times, but this is college however there are so many resources located within the campus that you will find all the assistance you need.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University has a very large & beautiful campus. There is much diversity with the various students backgrounds/ cultures. NCSU has a huge selection of degrees one can major in, engineering is one of the disciplines that NCSU is known most for.

Charles from Gastonia, NC

03/29/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Go outside!! Every dorm has its own volleyball court that kids play on all the time. If Volleyball isnt your thing then head to miller field and play Frisbee, Soccer, or any number of sports. There is also a campus movie theater for people who love to see movies. Its free most of the time! As far as parties, State has some of the best around. A lot of my friends from UNC come down here for the weekends just to go out.

Food and Dining

The dinning halls are not exactly the best source of food, but they almost always have at least one item thats pretty decent to eat. For some reason all the alternative food sources on campus are closed on the weekends which is kind of a pain for those that live far away from the dining halls. If you can try and live in a dorm that gets dinning privileges as Case.

Dorm Life

The students here are a really great group of people. No matter where you end up living on campus you are going to be surrounded by some really fun people. All the dorms have tons of social events through the semester so its easy to get out, meet people, and have fun. The night life around campus is also pretty exciting if your in to that. You will not be bored!

Academic Rigor

It definitely depends on what your major is and how you build up your schedule. Im personally in the first year engineering program and most of my classes can be pretty demanding. However, as long as you keep up with your work you should be able to handle the workload.

Tips for prospective students

Check and see if your eligible for the Scholars or Honors programs. The benefits for being in those programs are great. Always keep an eye out for social events that the school throws. They are a lot of fun.

In three sentences

NCSU has a great community of undergrads that makes it a perfect school for people looking to make life-long friends during college. The engineering program here is absolutely amazing for those interested in the field. Most professors are very personable, and enjoy helping students outside of just the lecture.

Rebecca from Maiden, NC

A no hazing policy makes pledging a fun and safe choice. There are many fraternities and sororities available.

Bang for the buck

Look carefully at meal plans and decide what would be best for you. Decide how often you will need transportation when buying a parking pass. Most don't account for the awesome free bus system and won't need their car often.

What to do for fun

NC State has it's own movie theater right in the middle of campus. Best part? $2.00 movies! Not to mention all the free showings of movies that haven't came out yet. Within walking distance there is also bowling alleys, many food choices, parks, and other campus related activities.

Food and Dining

There are three dining halls located around campus. They always have healthy choices but do get bland after a while. The Atrium, Student Center, and the Wolves Den more than make up with it adding a lot of variety.

Dorm Life

Dorm life can be whatever you want it to be. If you prefer to stay to yourself it's definitely an option. However there is always something going on if you are interested. Suite mates often become very close friends.

Academic Rigor

Classes can be challaging, but there is help if it's needed. I was always told in high school that college teachers wouldn't care nor would they want to help you. They couldn't have been more wrong. I've never had a teacher at NC State tell me they wouldn't help me understand something or refuse to sit down with me to talk something over. They want you to succeed!

Tips for prospective students

Get involved in clubs or groups that you are interested in. It looks good on a resume and can be a lot of fun! A big help is the tutorial centers and tutors, take advantage of those early. Always keep in touch with you adviser, they are here to help you. Have fun, and don't be afraid to be yourself.

In three sentences

A life changing experience that I couldn't be more grateful for. NC State has provided me with opportunities like traveling and studying abroad as well as making life long friendships. The best way I can describe it is like a big family, with something for everyone.

James from Lillington, NC

05/14/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I'd say the safety you're provided on campus is overall excellent. There are always police men on duty around campus and the Safety Escort Service offered by NC State works 24 hours to drive students to and from their destination at their call. This is helpful for students who had to pull an all-nighter to study for an exam in the library and face the risk of danger when walking back to their dorm in the middle of the night across campus.

Clubs and Activities

I would definitely advise students to get involved on campus. Not only does it make your resumé look good, but it also gives you something to do on campus. You should NEVER say that you're bored on campus. If you do, you aren't spending your time wisely or productively. Join more clubs. I joined the Uninhibited Praise Gospel Choir and I was always practicing on Mondays for various events that we'd host on AND OFF campus. You can increase your social circle when you do things like this on campus.

Bang for the buck

The restaurants on Hillsborough Street are definitely worth the money if you ever get tired of campus food. This is part of what I meant when I mentioned how convenient everything is in its location. Nothing is too far away.

What to do for fun

Hmmm...what to do for fun. There is a media room in the D.H. Hill Library that I like to go to in my free time. You can work on making videos or doing audio projects like singing or creating instrumentals. Also, the library allows you to borrow video games and game stations like the Wii, PS3, XBOX 360, etc. and they even lend out movies for you to watch as well. There are also gyms and outdoor courts for playing basketball, tennis, and others athletic activities of that nature.

Food and Dining

The best part of NC State's meal plan program is the breakfast. For me, I have to have a decent meal in the morning to get my day started right. The earlier you wake up to get to the dining hall, the better. The meals are nice and fresh and the waiting of long lines doesn't have to hinder you as much. Overall, the meals are healthy and nutritious. Sometimes, there are days when you just won't feel the certain food menus provided for you, but trust me, it's better to eat healthy than wastefully.

Dorm Life

I stayed in the Sullivan Residence Hall for the 2011 - 2012 school year and I enjoyed the on-campus experience. Although, the morals and values of various students get tested and you may not agree with the things other students do in their spare time, you gain an incredible amount of independence as far as being away from home, deciding (for yourself) when you need to get out of bed, how long it takes for you to get yourself ready in the morning and go to your class. I absolutely LOVED the dorm life. I can't wait to be back. It's almost like living in an apartment with a roommate :-)

Academic Rigor

Going to college, of course, is going to be a new experience and it will present some challenges that require you to be on your feet and spontaneous. Academically, I believe NC State hones in on these challenging settings. Various courses will require for you to work in groups with other students, which isn't always pleasant but allows for you to gain an understanding for how to be a leader when it comes to splitting up the workload of an assignment. It also works on your communication skills and requires you to stay in touch with others. This is your grade you're fighting for. Don't let the failures of one student affect this for you.

Tips for prospective students

Always network. There is always something going on at NC State and although Facebook and Twitter do come in handy for knowing immediate events, most of the time you will find out incognito information.

In three sentences

This school is definitely the place to be in regards to calling it your home. Everything you need is pretty much local. There's a mall (CrabTree Valley) near the campus and the CAT buses are convenient for bringing you there. There are plenty of gyms, weight rooms, track fields, and sidewalks for athletes to spend their time at. I just love the feel of the campus, and the brick foundation adds to that homey feeling that you'll need to enjoy the experience, especially if you're far away from home.

Katy from Raleigh, NC

Because we are close to the city there are a good number of Wolf Alerts that go out but I never feel threatened when being on campus.

Greek Life

Definitely recommend getting involved. I am in a sorority at State and I LOVE it. It helps people make a smaller connection on such a small campus.

Clubs and Activities

Agromeck, Inter murals.

Great for these types of students

Any! All types of students attend N.C. State. It would be hard not to find a group of people that you can get involved with.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The bell tower turns red when there is a special event, or when we win a big game.

Bang for the buck

It depends on what you are looking for in college. You have to go out of your way to make friends/fun, but I feel that is the case for any institution.

What to do for fun

Hang out with friends, Explore downtown, Parties, Community Service.

Food and Dining

The food is pretty decent. We have a few dining halls and also a larger cafeteria on main campus.

Dorm Life

Dorm life here is not as popular at most institutions. Typically only freshman and a small portion of sophomores live on campus.

Academic Rigor

I am a transfer student from a small college, and I would say N.C. State is pretty challenging academically. It depends on your major, as to how much of a work load you take on, but I would not say it is an easy A campus.

Tips for prospective students

Do not be afraid to branch out and get involved in clubs, inter murals, greek life, etc.

In three sentences

North Carolina State is a large university. If you want to go to a school with decent sporting teams and strong academics N.C. State is a great choice.

Marifrances from Raleigh, NC

05/16/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There is a wolfline bus systems that runs until very late to take students around campus or to the library. After a certain point you can call an escort safety service that will take you back to your dorm free of charge.

Greek Life

Greek life is not very dominate here.

Clubs and Activities

There are many clubs such as habitat for humanity, or honors societies, sport clubs and there is always something to do at the recreation facility.

Great for these types of students

NC State is great for any type of student with a vast number of majors, and something for everyone.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a free expression tunnel located on campus - in which students can go and spray paint the tunnel however they like. There is also a huge field with sidewalks in it called the court of carolinas - which is a great place to go have a picnic, professors have class out there sometimes, or to just hang out in between classes.

Bang for the buck

At NC State when it comes to the dining options you really get your money's worth.

What to do for fun

There is a movie theather right off of campus. NC State holds different events like free concerts, art shows, plays, intramural sporting games, free movies, parties, varsity sporting games, which are only a few things that you can do for fun.

Food and Dining

The food is great with lots of healthy options.

Dorm Life

I lived at the Avent Ferry Complex and loved the location of it and my RA was great,.

Academic Rigor

I have been challenged in the majority of my classes at NC State, and love that I feel like I will be able to incorporate the principles I have learned from class to on the job when I graduate.

Tips for prospective students

Before your first day of classes make sure you walk on campus to each building, so that you know where to go. Apply EARLY! That is the best way to get into NC State, get the dorm you want and get to go to an awesome university. Use the resources that NC State has for students, like the tutorial centers around campus for different classes.

In three sentences

NC State is a big public school but they find a way to keep it small in regards to extracurricular activities. The food at NC State is great - with lots of healthy options. The campus is continually changing and being renovated, which means the school is growing and getting better.

There are literally hundreds of clubs and Activities to join. Almost anything you can think of. I'm personally part of club track & field, since I decided not to join the team (which I may this upcoming year).

Bang for the buck

All I have to say is Hillsborough St. when it comes to food. At least 3 chinese places up there, reasonably priced, a couple of pizza shops, bowling alley, hot box pizza, frozen deserts, jimmy johns, chipotle, etc. I'm always on Hillsborough at night when I'm at the library studying. Way better than on campus dining.

What to do for fun

There is a variety of things to do, on and off campus. The night life of the clubs are pretty good for the price (you got to know people to get in for free or $5). A lot of times my friends and I make late night Krispy Kreme runs or may go see a movie. And there's always Hillsborough St.

Food and Dining

For the first semester or two the food seems to be above par, but as your time there eating increases you become tired of the same things every other week. I prefer Talley or the Atrium over the Dining halls as do most students. I just wish they would increase the equivalency without increasing the prices.

Dorm Life

Central campus dorms suck, simple as that. The rooms are too small for me to actually live their so most of my time is spent in the library or someone else's room not on central campus. The best dorms are Bragaw and Avent Ferry.

Academic Rigor

As far as Engineering goes, the course work is difficult and challenging, but is worth it in the end. Professors are always willing to help their students, just don't be afraid to ask for help.

Tips for prospective students

Stay focused and start off strong your first semester so you don't have to worry about picking your GPA back up in your latter years. In college you have three choices, make good grades, have a social life, and sleep, but you can only choose two.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is a great Engineering and Research school. The strive for excellence in their students.

Reshma from Belmont, NC

There are activities almost every week, games, the brickyard always has something going on, and there is some type of event almost everyday.

Food and Dining

There are a variety of places to eat on campus. From the atrium, to Talley Student Center, to one of the dining halls. The c-store is always open and a great place to buy food.

Dorm Life

Depending on where you decide to live, dorm life can be very calm or extremely interactive.

Academic Rigor

The professors are wonderful, they take time to help you during office hours and will offer any advice on how to succeed in their classes as well as in your career.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved immediately, everyone is there to help and networking is a major part of college life.

In three sentences

It is an amazing university. There are many opportunities to get involved on campus and to be engaged in activities. The environment is supportive and everyone is willing to help you with your future goals.

Allison from Raleigh, NC

There are cops you can call around campus that will escort you if you have to be out really late. Just travel in numbers and typically everything's fine. There's no unusually high amount of crime.

Greek Life

There are a variety of options from Christian sororities, to professional engineering sororities, to social fraternities and sororities. Joining greek life is a great way to find individuals with similar goals and interests.

Clubs and Activities

From Greek life, to student clubs. There is something for everyone. Professional engineering sorority, Animal clubs, and much more.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Brick Yard is a very important part of campus. All kinds of activities go on here. Also, the creamery is well known. The creamery has its famous home made ice cream. Hillsborough is also very important. Many businesses and restaurants are located here making it a popular place to be.

What to do for fun

Check out the clubs, do some intramural sports, take a trip to the mall, go bowling, or even go to the movies. There are PLENTY of things to do at and around NC State.

Food and Dining

Not a fan of the food but being a health nut, I cook nearly all my food anyways. The apartment style living allows you to have the option of preparing your own food making staying fit and not gaining that freshman 15 much easier. Of the on campus options, I'd have to say the Atrium is definitely the best and port city java would be in second place. Both have a lot of healthy options, and the Atrium has pretty much anything you could possibly want as a college student.

Dorm Life

Not a fan of dorms but NC State has plenty of apartment style living options. These include but are not limited to The College Inn, The Retreat, Campus Crossings, Wolf Creek, Valentine Commons, and many more.

Academic Rigor

You will need to put effort in if you really want to succeed. Those high school days where studying was almost non existent are over. Work hard and the end result will be good.

Tips for prospective students

Attend the school and stay active on campus. The experience is way better with friends who share common interests. Also, set goals for yourself and keep your eye on what your ultimate goal is.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is like a one size fits all type deal. There is a major for everyone, a variety of individuals, numerous opportunities to succeed and grow as an individual, organizations for all and much more. Also, the location is conveniently located in the center of Raleigh which means boredom is a thing of the past.

NC State Student

05/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Email alerts and text alerts are sent out every time there is any type of crime on campus. Usually it is from people not affiliated with the university. I have never felt threatened or unsafe on campus. They also provide safety escorts that you can call to get you from one place to another if its night and you are alone.

Greek Life

We have an active greek life but I'm not apart of it so I can't say much on the subject.

Clubs and Activities

NC State has so many clubs! It's super easy to find something that your interested in and to find people with similar interests.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have a free expression tunnel that students (or anyone on campus) can spray paint in. It's used for adds, club advertisements, graffiti, and just people wanting to express them self. It's fun to walk through and look at all the art that shows up and it changes on a daily basis so theres always new things to look at.

What to do for fun

I don't usually have a lot of time for fun honestly. There is Pullen Park right next to campus that they renovated. We are a very short drive (or even walk if you like the exercise) from downtown Raleigh so theres museums and night life there. Also were a short drive from shopping malls like Crabtree and North Hills. Everything in Raleigh is close to campus so there is always something going on. There are night buses that run to take people downtown or back if needed.

Food and Dining

There are a lot of on campus options from places like Taco Bell and Chickfila to sub and pasta places. The dining halls aren't as bad as everyone makes them out to be. Theres always something there that you can eat but towards the end of the year the quality declines.

Dorm Life

I have lived in the same dorm my first 2 years at school and really liked it (that why I lived there a second year). The dorm was clean and had everything I needed very close by. The only reason it didn't get the 5th star was that the rooms were fairly small.

Academic Rigor

I give it 3 stars because it really depends on what major you choose. Chemical engineering is obviously going to be much more rigorous and demanding than something like elementary education.

Tips for prospective students

NC State can seem large and intimidating at first but the campus shrinks when you get used to it. I've had both lecture hall classes and classes with 20 people in them so don't expect big school to always equal big classes.

In three sentences

I love it at NC State! The campus is clean and nice and there are a lot of dining options on campus and very near campus. There are so many resources provided through the university you will never want for anything!

Emily from Durham, NC

05/24/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

NCSU provides a safety escort that run starting 6pm until about 3am. This has made me feel tremendously safe because it means I don't have to walk around at night by myself, I always have a guaranteed ride. Also, the campus police are usually on patrol and so I'm never worried about strangers on campus and the like.

Greek Life

Greek Life is still becoming big on State, though it is not the ruling factor. They have plans to redo Greek Court and make sure that every sorority and fraternity has a house in Greek Court. If you want to join, it isn't hard, just attend rush and the rest is history. They also hold many service events for everyone to participate in.

Clubs and Activities

I have found that there are so many clubs at State that it is hard to want to just join one. There is so much variety, from clubs focused on majors to clubs focuses on building robots. There is definitely something for everyone and they make it fun and easy to join.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Krispy Cream Challenge is a tradition that many State student participate in as well as the completing the Brick, a book to guide you through all the NCSU traditions. I like going to the trails behind the soccer fields, there a good place to get away and back to nature.

Bang for the buck

State really puts to use the money they receive in ways that benefit us, the students. The student health center is what I consider to be a great addition because I don't know of many other campus' with a mini hospital on site. Also the career center makes it easy to prepare for jobs and internships. I really enjoy all the resources available to me and make sure I take advantage of them.

What to do for fun

What I did for fun on campus was hanging out on Tucker Beach, walking the trails to Pullen Park, and renting bikes from the OA center for an afternoon bike ride. If you enjoy working out like me, the gym is a great place to be. They have a rock climbing wall and a swimming pool. There are many options to choose from when you feel bored at State. My favorite part was going to the athletic games. It super easy to get tickets as a student and incredibly fun to go and join in on the Wolfpack pride.

Food and Dining

The dining halls are better than a lot of other colleges I've visited. Though I didn't eat there too often, I loved the weekend brunch. NCSU has other dining options too, like the Atrium and Talley. I think the best part about dining at State is the Port City Java, a coffee shop all over campus!

Dorm Life

I had so much fun in my dorm, Tucker Hall. It was clean and the RA office had all the supplies that I didn't. The RA's also were very friendly and generally cared and were there for me. I think living on campus is a great experience and a must at least for freshman year.

Academic Rigor

The classes are fun and easy to follow when you keep up with the readings and do the homework. It is not hard to make an A in every class if that's what you're shooting for. Even if a section is harder than usual, the office hours provided, as well as the many tutoring services, will make it a breeze to understand.

Tips for prospective students

I advice incoming students to stay level headed, coming to college can be overwhelming but State has so many resources that it is easy to feel right at home. Stay organized! NCSU is a big school and it is easy to get lost in your work, so staying on top of your schedule and assignments will make it a lot easier.

In three sentences

NCSU is not only a university for learning, it has become a place of growth and advancement both academically, and personally. I have had the opportunity to meet so many student and professionals that offer a lot of advice and help no matter what the issue is. I find that the faculty is able and willing to work with the students in every aspect to ensure they get the education they deserve.

Mark from Cary, NC

05/24/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

I personally feel that the dining halls are one of the biggest highlights of NC State. The kitchen staff really works hard to provide students will delicious, nutritious food while offering many varieties of ethnic dishes.

Dorm Life

It depends on who you are assigned. Students should choose someone they know from high school as their roommate during the first year of college.

Academic Rigor

You are expected to put a decent number of hours into coursework outside of the classroom and some professors design classes so that students must learn material for themselves

In three sentences

NC State has a great array of professors that really make sure students understand the academic material. The university offers excellent services to the students. NC State definitely helps prepare students for careers after college.

Jack from MD

There is something for everyone from sports and learning to arts and conservancy. There is even a Harry Potter group that play Quidditch.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Graffeti Tunnel is constantly transformed by students expressing themselves through spray paint and traditional paint.

Bang for the buck

Raleigh is a great town to live in. Costs are reasonable. NC State is priced reasonably for a high quality education.

What to do for fun

I enjoyed making art in the graffeti tunnel, watching new movie releases in the campus theater, going to dance club, see a band, watching NC State games in the lounge with other students and going to games. I spent time with friends around campus too. There is something to do for everyone. Raleigh also has First Fridays where galleries are open and free to visit as well as music events.

Food and Dining

Not the best food...sorry. It isn't to my taste. I mostly ate Chic-Fil-A because I didn't like the food at the cafeteria near my dorm and classes.

Dorm Life

I was lucky to get a dorm near my classes. I specifically picked 3 that were at the east side of campus because all my classes were on that side. Rooms are quiet and provide basics. I only slept and spent some of my study time in my room. I used the library, lounge and classrooms to do my course work.

Academic Rigor

In my major, the design classes are very challenging and exciting. They are what I know is need to be well prepared to enter the job field. My professors are skilled and knowledgeable - qualified to teach and prepare me for a career in Industrial Design. The required academic classes are expected college level.

Tips for prospective students

Take the general campus tour to see dorms hear about a students experience first hand. Most importantly as for an appointment with someone from the department you want to major in. They can be most helpful in advising what will make you most attractive to the college as well as you being able to judge whether this school is a fit for you. You'll get to experience a teacher first hand and learn what is involved in graduating in your major.

In three sentences

NC State offers a small college experience with the benefits of a large college. By declaring your major as a freshman you begin classes in your major your first year. This provides more time focused on classes that are relevant to your major making you more prepared than graduates from other colleges that don't let you study in your major until junior year.

Alice from Four Oaks, NC

06/04/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Bang for the buck

Based on what I've experienced so far, NC State has just as much, if not more, than other schools for a much less expensive price. There are a lot of opportunities to plug in, and the staff is very willing to help with whatever you might need.

What to do for fun

Right across from my dorm is Pullen Park, which has plenty to do in itself. On campus there is always something going on with a different club, whether it's for a sport, at the gym, or just going out with friends. At State, we are able to take a bus into downtown Raleigh which has even more to offer.

Food and Dining

I've only had some of the food available to students, but NC State has a large variety of meals. There are multiple restaurants like Chick-fil-A, an ice cream bar in addition to all that they have in the cafeteria.

Dorm Life

I plan to stay with the SAY living and learning village. I have heard incredible reviews about it, and am very excited to be a part of it this coming school year. Not only will I be able to work with 4th and 5th grade students, but I'll actually know and be friends with my neighbors! :)

Academic Rigor

Based on the standard that I've been required to meet, I would say that State has a high Academic Rigor. There are other schools that have higher requirements, but State is by no means just accepting everyone.

Tips for prospective students

Stay in touch with the staff from State that meet with you, and feel free to ask them questions. There are people there for you, you just have to be willing to meet them halfway.

In three sentences

NC State has been very helpful with my transition from senior year in high school to freshman year at the College of Education. There is are many activities available for me to get involved in, including living and learning villages. The people that work with you are very down-to-earth and are willing to answer any questions you have.

Olivia from Wilmington, NC

06/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Being near downtown Raleigh and being a public campus, there is always a small threat of crime, but I always feel pretty safe. As long as you're not walking by yourself at 1 am, you'll be fine. There are always safety escorts available to get you home safely, but I've heard they take a while to pick you up.

Greek Life

Greek Life is very popular. There are many fraternities and sororities, which are all large.

Great for these types of students

It's pretty laid back, so anyone can fit in. I've met students from everywhere in the US and even some out of the US. Every ethnicity is welcomed, which is why NCSU is well known for their diversity.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every year, there is the Krispy Kreme challenge, where students run to the belltower, eat a dozen krispy kreme donuts, and run back to the starting line. It's also a great tradition to go to football games and tailgate.

Bang for the buck

Because it is a public state school, it is cheaper. Compared to other schools I was considering, it was 50-75% less expensive in tuition, which is great. The room and board is also considerably cheap and grants are very easy to get.

What to do for fun

There is always something to do on campus. There are numerous clubs for each and every interest. Also, the sports are very popular. Everyone loves going to football and basketball games to cheer on the pack.

Food and Dining

The dining is hit or miss. Some nights were pretty good, but most were okay. Most of the food in the dining halls is southern style and most people agree that Case is the best dining hall, which is only open to non-athlete students for breakfast and lunch. The non-dining hall food places, such as Chic-fil-a, taco bell, and little dino's are pretty good, I just wish they had some healthier options.

Dorm Life

I lived in Tucker, one of the few hall style dorm buildings. I loved the atmosphere and community I felt in my dorm. My only complaint is that it could get loud sometimes, especially on the weekends.

Academic Rigor

I came from a challenging high school and took various AP classes, so I was used to disciplining myself in school. I felt that the academics were challenging, but with discipline and good studying habits, good grades were possible. It took me a while to get used to having few tests and grades, but this made me push myself harder.

Tips for prospective students

Always check professor ratings before enrolling in classes, don't buy books from the bookstore, and seek out the many opportunities the campus has to offer.

In three sentences

Overall, I love the laid-back atmosphere and environment. Although it is not the prettiest campus I've been on, once you look past all the bricks, you'll see it's very nice. The people and professors are all very welcoming and I felt right at home.

Not A One Man Wolfpack

06/19/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

NCSU has a campus cinema that plays two movies each weekend for around $2. Sometimes if you can convince your RA to put on a program to the cinema they can pay for you *winkwink*. Arts NC State should also something you check out. I signed up for a pottery class and access to the studio. It definitely became a passion of mine. The gym is open almost all the time and the rock wall is really cool! Sporting events such as football games are a MUST. You have to go and you have to tailgate. Period. Downtown Raleigh is right down the road with plenty of bars and nightclubs to have tons of fun if you're willing to pay. Go to parties off campus (not in a dry dorm), but make sure you are safe and have a place to crash (DO NOT DRIVE HOME). There are always events going on that you can check out on the NCSU calendar. Just make sure that you get out and GO!

Food and Dining

If you don't care what you eat go to the dining halls (Fountain, Clark, Case). I have done my time there and regretted it some nights. There are other options on campus than the dining halls like Taco Bell, The Wolves Den, Chickfila, Brickyard Pizza, etc. These are all good, but eating the same food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner can get boring so make sure to investigate all the options on Hillsborough Street. I would suggest Mitch's Tavern, Global Village, and Jasmines. All are DELICIOUS!

Dorm Life

You might have heard horror stories about dorm life or the opposite, but personal experience has been FANTASTIC! NCSU has hall style, suite style, and apartments on campus. I've lived in suite and apartments and both were great. I lucked out with my freshman suite where I met and grew very close with my suities. The resident hall that you live in could also house a living and learning community that you can apply for. It would have people with the same major/interests/achievements as you. Also make sure to get to know your Resident Advisor. I've know really good ones and really bad ones at NCSU. They all want to help you succeed and will give you FREE FOOD! GO TO THEIR PROGRAMS!

Academic Rigor

This really depends on the major that you choose. Something like engineering will be very demanding, while others are less strenuous. All majors have some classes that will push you to your limit with all-nighters, meltdowns, and eventually to the final exam where you have lost all interest. Never fear though, freshman retakes are for those classes that defeated you the first go around.

Tips for prospective students

Keep an open mind and explore! Make sure to get outside your dorm room and meet people through clubs, classes, and on your dorm floor. The people you meet may become long time friends. If you don't know what you want to major in, start in a major not first year college! You can go ahead and start working towards a major and then switch out later.

In three sentences

NCSU is a welcoming school where you can find your niche! Events are always gone to keep you occupied and for breaks from school work. A diverse, accepting, challenging environment where you can learn, grow, and play.

Samuel from Black Mountain, NC

Everything from the partying C- students to Co-ed National Honor Fraternities, NC State has you covered.

Clubs and Activities

It's the capital of North Carolina, of course there will be great nightlife!

Great for these types of students

Academic, fun-loving, introverts. No matter what type of person you are, you can find your niche at NC State.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Because the entire campus is composed of bricks, many seniors take a brick as a memorial when they graduate.

Bang for the buck

One of the best state universities. It has offered me the best experience of my life. I am proud to be part of the wolfpack and I would never change that.

What to do for fun

There are movie theaters located on, and all around the campus. The gym is open until late for working out, basketball, or whatever you are into. The nightlife that Raleigh offers is less that ten minutes away. The apartments near campus offer a fun experience as well. No matter what day or what time, nobody on the NC State campus should ever be bored.

Food and Dining

Dining halls lack stellar taste and size like Chapel Hill, but they are in good locations and have easy access whenever you need. The many different fast-food restaurants and coffee shops make up for the less than perfect dining halls.

Dorm Life

The dorm rooms are much larger than many other state colleges'. Depending on your side of campus you can choose either the quiet dorms or the more lively crowd. Also, rooms come in single, double or even triple occupancy.

Academic Rigor

It is not an easy school, but very worth it. I know my degree will take me places.

Tips for prospective students

Spend time in the library. The best way to study is in the library either with a study group (usually easy to find for any class), or in the bookstacks for quiet, solitary, reflective studying.

In three sentences

NC State is fun, inclusive, and challenging. There are plenty of opportunities to become involved in whatever you are interested in and enjoy your time there. The classes make you think, challenge you as a student, and prepare you for the real world.

Kelly from Miami Springs, FL

06/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are Emergency buttons located at just about every corner incase something were to go wrong and a safety escort is always on call to transport people when they are uncomfortable with their surroundings.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every year, students campout all night to score basketball tickets against our rival, UNC.

What to do for fun

There is great nightlife in Raleigh, many clubs and organizations at the school, and there are always people up for a good time!

Food and Dining

There are many places to eat, including: Chick-fil-A, Taco Bell, three dining halls, and about five other chains.

Dorm Life

There are so many different types of dorms to choose from, including: hall-style, suite-style, and apartments.

Academic Rigor

Difficulty ranges from major to major, but all classes go into great depth on the given subject. Even though some classes are a lot more difficult than others, all teachers set aside visiting hours to assist students.

In three sentences

NCSU is a wonderful university with many opportunities. The campus is very diverse, with several dorms filled with exchange students. The staff and students all have a friendly way about themselves.

Antonio from Garner, NC

Very Secure, occasional reports of serious crime, but safe for the most part.

Greek Life

Do not participate, those groups seem to exclusive for organizations that charge large amounts of money to live in a crowded home

Clubs and Activities

Hundreds

Great for these types of students

Technologically inclined, mathematically gifted individuals

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Krispey Kreme Challenge Polar Plunge

What to do for fun

There are hundreds of organizations on campus, not very hard to find your niche.

Food and Dining

Could benefit from more gourmet options, more on campus restaurants. Better dining hall food and more options.

Dorm Life

It was an interesting experience, nothing to write home about.

Academic Rigor

Would love to see a change in the calculus sequence, Single Variable Calculus and a Multivariable Calculus.

Tips for prospective students

Load up as much as possible on math Attempt to get as much AP credit in math and science, it is to your benefit. Don't procrastinate College courses are significantly harder than your high school courses, and no one is behind you pushing you to do hw or projects.

In three sentences

It is a good university, there is an emphasis on math and science. The university would benefit more from a higher admission of Latinos. Also, an increase in financial aid would help more students focus more on school rather than worry about the finances.

LISA from CLAYTON, NC

WE HAVE AN ANNUAL KRISPY KREAM CHALLENGE, THE FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION TUNNEL, FASHION SHOWS ON CAMPUS. FARMERS MARKET ON WEDNESDAYS AND MORE.

What to do for fun

NC STATE IS VERY CLOSE TO DOWNTOWN RALEIGH AND THERE IS MUCH TO DO IF YOU EVER WANT TO GO OUT AND HAVE SOME FUN OFF CAMPUS BUT ON CAMPUS THERE ARE ALSO MANY ACTIVITIES. YOU CAN GO TO THE GYM, GO BOWLING ON HILLSBOROUGH STREET, WATCH MOVIES AT THE CAMPUS CINEMA AND MUCH MORE

Food and Dining

THERE ARE MANY FOOD OPTIONS ON CAMPUS AND OFF. THE FOOD IS GOOD.

Dorm Life

I GUESS I DON'T HAVE MUCH TO SAY ABOUT DORM LIFE BECAUSE I ONLY STAYED IN A DORM FOR ONE SEMESTER.

Academic Rigor

CLASSES AND PROFESSORS ARE TOUGH BUT THAT IS HOW YOU LEARN. IT IS DEFIANTLY NOT A PIECE OF CAKE BUT YOU GET SO MUCH OUT OF CLASSES IF YOU FOCUS AND TRY.

Tips for prospective students

TRY A LITTLE BIT OF EVERYTHING. JOIN CLUBS. ASK QUESTIONS. GO TO TUTORING IF YOU NEED HELP, ITS FREE. EXPERIENCE COLLEGE LIFE AND ENJOY. LEARN AS MUCH AS YOU CAN FROM ALL YOUR CLASSES AND PROFESSORS.

In three sentences

TEACHERS EXPRESS TO STUDENTS THAT THEY WANT YOU TO GET THE MOST OUT OF THEIR CLASS. IF WE ARE PAYING FOR COLLEGE WE NEED TO GET THE MOST OUT OF IT AND NC STATE HAS A LOT TO GIVE. THERE ARE SO MANY CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES FOR STUDENTS TO GET INVOLVED IN. YOU FEEL WELCOME AND SURROUNDED BY PEOPLE WHO HAVE SIMILAR GOALS, TO SUCCEED.

Haley from Greenville, NC

You get crime alerts, safety escorts, help buttons, and locked dorms. You feel safe in a big city.

Great for these types of students

Outgoing, social, people persons.

What to do for fun

Go to as many sporting events as you can! Mingle with greek life and other on campus clubs.

Food and Dining

The dining halls are not bad. There are 3 on campus, C-stores, and fast food places, enough options to mix it up.

Dorm Life

On campus living for freshman year is a must. Owen/Tucker are a favorite. Middle of campus, hall style, and a sink in your room! The tri towers however; Medcaf, Carroll, and Bowen have small rooms!

Academic Rigor

Classes are tough but they are not impossible. Sit in front, contribute and get to know your teacher.

Tips for prospective students

In big schools it's easy to feel lost, don't hesitate to get involved on campus. NCSU is full of opportunity.

In three sentences

NCSU is a large university made up of small college based on your majors. This gives you the big campus feel, while also having the small atmosphere at the same time. The school spirit is great and campus is too.

Ashlyn from Durham, NC

08/01/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus police are always a phone call away. They even offer a taxi service to take you to your apartment or dorm if you've been drinking and have no way to get home. Also offers classes for women on self defense.

Great for these types of students

If you enjoy engineering, farming/agriculture, science, or textiles this is an amazing school for you!

Angela from Jacksonville, NC

It's great for engineering students, and/or for outgoing students who love the typical college life. It's not good for students who want a lot of academic rigor or a competitive academic environment.

Bang for the buck

If you can schedule your courses so you graduate on time, NC State is much more affordable than any of its neighboring colleges. However, several of the classes are only offered at specific semesters, and NC State demands several General Education Requirements, so it can be difficult to get all your credits in on time.

What to do for fun

NC State has a very active nightlife. Bars and restaurants overflow with students any day of the week. School athletic events are always spirited! It's easy to find something to do at NC State- you just have to go out and the fun usually finds you.

Food and Dining

There are several good eateries on and off campus that have a college atmosphere and are very affordable.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is convenient as a freshman or if you get an RA position, but most people move into the apartments after the first year because the apartments are less expensive and offer parking.

Academic Rigor

NC State is best known for its Engineering majors. As a Marine Science major with a Chinese minor, NC State's curriculum focuses on breadth over depth.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved in extracurricular activities. Because the school is so large, it can be easy to feel lost in the crowd. Find a smaller group of people with similar interests as you, like a club or a team, to avoid feeling detached.

In three sentences

NC State is most unique for its academic and ethnic diversity. The amiable, good-old-boy atmosphere inspires people of all backgrounds to achieve. It is a comfortable transition for high school students and transfer students alike.

LeAnne from Purlear, NC

08/28/2012

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has not been to campus.

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In three sentences

I have been researching this school and think it is amazing! I am definitely applying! I has exactly what I want and the program was great, and I am planning to apply for the summer program in microbiology!

Stanley from Montgomery Village, MD

Get email notices from police of suspicious activity on or near campus.

Bang for the buck

So much less expensive on line.

Academic Rigor

Real challenge, takes alot more time on line.

Tips for prospective students

Start earlier, the process is long and cumbersome

In three sentences

Currently taking on line graduate course. On line is a challenge, takes alot of patiences, but in the end rewarding. It has its advantages being able to review the class over again, but you have to be able to study without the classroom atmosphere and no questions.

Carol from Raleigh, NC

The campus has many great safety precautions in place and has a relatively low crime rate. Just be sure to always watch your stuff, lock your door when away, and chain your bikes up.

Clubs and Activities

There are hundreds of clubs and activities to choose from.

Great for these types of students

Engineering, design, architecture, and textiles students would do well to come here. The campus has a large and diverse population and is convenient to downtown Raleigh; if that appeals to you, come here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The free expression tunnel is one of the coolest NCSU traditions. Everyone is free to paint the walls, ceiling, and floor!

Bang for the buck

I love the amount of resources available to us students. The tuition in-state is very affordable too.

What to do for fun

Just about anything you can imagine.

Food and Dining

I love the all-you-can-eat dining halls, not to mention the other on-campus restaurants. We even have The Creamery, an ice-cream parlor that sells Howling Cow ice-cream made here on campus with milk from our very own cows.

Dorm Life

I absolutely love my dorm and my roommate. My room is a bit small (the smallest on our hall, actually), but it's still comfortable. The lounge is really nice and the building is secure.

Academic Rigor

Your course load will depend on your major and the amount of time you want to spend in college. There are classes at the perfect level for anyone.

Tips for prospective students

Study hard in high school and review over the summer so that you retain what you've learned and won't have to work to relearn it. Additionally, if you do decide to come here, bring plenty of bug spray and cool clothes; Raleigh is warm and humid, perfect conditions for mosquitoes and other insects.

In three sentences

NCSU Is amazing! I love my dorm, my classes, and the sheer volume of friendly people. The whole campus looks lovely and is full of extracurricular opportunities.

Samantha from Durham, NC

09/05/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety is really good here. There is emergency poles on like every intersection of roads and there is a separate police officers that are the campus police. They give you there number and you can sign up to get text messages and emails from them when there is any situation on campus.

Clubs and Activities

There are over like 100 clubs and activities on campus. I just recently found the Disney Movie Club :). Trust me no matter what you like, there is a club here for it. It just might take you a little while to find it so pay attention to the chalk messages around campus.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Some unusual traditions on NC State is the Target Run which is basically a HUGE group of students get together and go to Target at 2 o'clock in the morning and run to get what they need and out before anyone else does. There is also the doughnut run, where you eat as many Krispy Kreme doughnuts that you possibly can and then run like 5 miles. There is one unusual location on campus and that is the free expression tunnel. It is this tunnel that connects the two parts of northern campus that is split by the rail road. In this tunnel anyone can grab a can of spray paint and paint on the walls. Just nothing with profanity or racist. You have to be nice.

What to do for fun

You can join a club, or go to the gym. You can also take a dip in the pool or just walk to the wolf den and play some pool. There is also an on campus movie theater that plays different movies that just went out of the regular cinemas. So if you missed the Avengers in the movie theater you can still watch it on the big screen on campus.

Food and Dining

The food is GREAT!!! Not only is the cafeteria good but the other on campus restaurants are equally as good. They have Taco Bell, Chick-Fil-A and many other small food stops for any person. Also they have a couple coffee places and smoothies.

Dorm Life

The dorms are super friendly and you can make lots of new friends by living here.

Academic Rigor

So far NC State isn't super hard, like the type of hard that makes you want to drop dead but it doesn't slow down for you unless you speak up.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely look into NC State! Also stay on top of your financial aid and make sure you get it all completed on time!

In three sentences

NC State is a huge campus but it is full of friendly people. There are lots of clubs that anyone can join and if you have a passion for something there is a club for it. It is very clean and productive place to learn.

Emily from Raleigh, NC

Campus police can be seen almost anywhere you go. I really like how they patrol the parking lots for the students who commute; it makes me feel a lot better about leaving my car while I'm in class.

Clubs and Activities

We have over 700 clubs. There's seriously something for EVERYONE!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Krispy Cream Challenge is our most famous tradition. The challenge is to run 6 miles and eat 12 donuts within a certain time. Most people dont complete the whole challenge but everyone has fun coming out and participating in some way.

What to do for fun

Theres always something going on on campus. The football games are the best! State also shows movies in their theater and many of their clubs have really exciting things going on every week.

Food and Dining

State has so many choices when it comes to what to eat. There is bound to be something you're in the mood for every day your there due to the high variety.

Dorm Life

Living on campus is amazing! You really get involved and you make so many friends within your dorm. State has so many friendly competitions between dorms that brings you all closer together, almost like a family.

Academic Rigor

Depending on the course you take, the academic rigor can be tough at times or pretty easy going. The more challenging classes, however, are the ones I seem to get the most out of; they really get you to think and provide you with knowledge you'll take with you even after you complete the course. All of State's staff is very friendly as well and are always great at helping you out when you dont understand a topic.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved! There is literally always something going on somewhere on campus. Making friends is so easy because everyone is so nice and jump at any chance they see to lend a hand of any kind. Being involved in NCSU's great community really makes you feel like your part of something.

In three sentences

NCSU has the most friendly community I've ever been in. It has the best resources for excelling in your education. And on top of all this there is an ample amount of benefits to being a student there.

There are always things going on on campus, and things to do nearby campus. Raleigh is a vibrant city with lots of shopping and active night life as well.

Food and Dining

There are lots of options for food all over campus. While dining halls usually get a bad reputation, the food actually isn't all that bad in them. THe conversion rate for meals is kind of a rip-off, but at the buffet dining halls that's not an issues.

Dorm Life

The dorms themselves are not bad, especially the converted motel dorms. The problem lies in the roommate matching system. They ask three questions - when you go to bed, when you wake up, and if you study with music - and assign you someone who maybe answered the same way as you. This obviously doesn't give a good picture of who your roommate actually is, so be prepared for a crappy dorm life if you go random roommate.

Academic Rigor

Classes are usually appropriately challenging and require a decent but not overwhelming amount of outside work.

Tips for prospective students

This is a great school if you want a big, urban school.

In three sentences

State has a little bit of something for everyone, with a broad selection of majors and classes. There's always a lot going on on campus, and many opportunities for students to get involved. It's also located in a great place in Raleigh, not too far from local attractions.

Ti'Era from Spring Hope, NC

We are located very closely to downtown, so follow all basic safety rules.

Greek Life

There are plenty of them here, you can definitely find one that suits you.

Clubs and Activities

Join Clubs. Trust me there is one for you. We even have a quidditch club.

Great for these types of students

If you love people this is the place for you. A student body of about 32,000 strong.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

You must see the gum wall, paint in the free expression tunnel, and see the round halls of Harrelson Hall.

Bang for the buck

NC State is worth the money. We have a low tuition rate considering all the advantages you will have.

What to do for fun

Thursday nights are where its at on the infamous Hillsborough Street. Go support the Wolfpack at the games because nothing will compare to the red and white spirit. Since a lot of students won't have cars, dorm RA's will always plan something fun and exciting.

Food and Dining

Food is great. Our school takes pride in nutrition so there are little stickers on all the food to help you make the healthy choice. Vegetarians, don't be weary there are just as many options for you too.

Dorm Life

Nothing will ever compare to dorm life, so be sure to experience it. Live at least one year on campus. It will be very interesting because people from all different backgrounds will come together to form a dorm family.

Academic Rigor

Even though we have a huge student body classes are often small. Utilize your resources because you can not do everything alone.

Tips for prospective students

Experience any and everything you can, from football games to study abroad. These will be the most influential four years of your life.

In three sentences

NC State has multitudes of resources to help you throughout your years here. You are never alone because there is a student organization for every interest and commonality. Multitudes of cultural backgrounds making you submersed into a cultural community.

Kara

10/01/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I frequently see the campus police. There are emergency stations everywhere you look on campus. These emergency stations are pillars with a button, intercom, and camera. If you run into trouble...press the button and a police officer will come right away to help you. We have a safe campus, but it is always good to carry pepper spray, just in case.

Greek Life

I'm not in Greek Life, but from what I've heard it is good to be involved in, if that type of thing interests you. We don't have just social sororities and fraternities. There are academic, service, and religious ones, too. If you are an engineering major, there is a fraternity just for that! If you need connections, Greek Life is the way to go.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs that it is difficult to know what to join. There is a club for just about every major you can think of.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for any type of student. I really suggest that engineering, science, and math majors consider applying. It is what our school is known for.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Freedom Expression Tunnel is where students paint to express themselves or notify others of events. It's actually really cool!

Bang for the buck

NCSU is really a great school. If you don't understand your courses and need a bit of extra help there is a Tutorial Center. You can sign up for a tutor for free. I found that this was really helpful for math and sciences. College is always going to be expensive, but if you're at the right school it is very worth it.

What to do for fun

Become a part of something! I'm only involved with Cru (Christian Crusade) this year, but being a part of something really enhances your experience. Just don't commit to too many clubs or groups. Carmichael Gym is in a convenient location. There are free Zumba classes, TRX, anything you can think of. I'm currently taking a rock climbing class as a PE and the rock wall is amazing! Hillsborough Street offers many activities. It's not a long walk at all. I know there is a bowling alley, but I'm not quite sure what else they have. The restaurants are college-friendly. The prices are not terribly steep. There's even a frozen yogurt place and a Dunkin Donuts. You can take the bus to Crabtree Valley Mall. If you have a car it is only about a 10-minute drive. There is also another shopping center called Cameron Village. The shops are expensive, but you can also take the bus here. It is just nice to look around and window shop. The closest Starbucks to campus is in this area.

Food and Dining

The Atrium is my favorite place to eat. There's Chick-fil-a, sushi, Chinese food, salads, etc. The dining halls really are not that bad. If you don't like what they are serving that day they always have the salad bar, sandwiches, and burgers. Talley Student Center offers Wolfpack To-Go, Freshens, and Taco Bell. Wolfpack To-Go is much like a Subway. You can use your meal plan to grab a wrap or a sub.

Dorm Life

I live in Sullivan and it was renovated this previous summer (Summer 2012), so I don't know about the other residence halls. Unfortunately the rooms closest to the bathrooms are the smallest (I live in a C room), but they are manageable. There are always programs planned by the RAs and they are very friendly. The programs are worth going to.

Academic Rigor

I feel sufficiently challenged in my current courses. Granted I took Physics and Chemistry in the same semester...

Tips for prospective students

Take AP classes! It will increase your chances of being accepted and it may put you a semester or even a year ahead. It did for me!

In three sentences

Three sentences is not enough to describe NCSU. This is a beautiful campus. Everyone is friendly and willing to help you in anyway possible.

Andrew from Raleigh, NC

Great fun, Great people. Also, tons of activities for students to engage in.

Academic Rigor

Depending on what major you decide, the academic rigor varies. Engineering tends to be the hardest academic course.

Tips for prospective students

1. Make sure that when you are on campus you could see yourself here. 2. Make sure your major is offered here.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University presents students with ideal college situation. The campus is beautiful and stocked with tons of resources for students to take advantage of. The opportunities are endless as a member of the wolfpack.

Ian from Lynchburg, VA

I always feel safe on campus. NC State has their own police department. They are always around and at night they have a safety escort system to get you to your apartment/dorm.

Greek Life

I have not been into Greek Life, but it is a big part of campus. I would encourage you to get involved if that is what you like to do.

Clubs and Activities

I have joined 2 soccer teams and a basketball team. There are over 50 clubs and over 18 intramural sports leagues. There are tons of opportunites for all different types of students.

Great for these types of students

All types of students attend NC State. That is what I love about it! It is a very large and diverse student body. There are opportunities here for all types of students.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have a tradition at North Carolina State called the Krispy Kreme Challenge. I was so psyched when I heard about this because I love donuts....You run from the Belltower 2 miles to the Krispy Kreme downtown store, eat a dozen donuts, and run back. Your goal is to do this in under an hour without throwing up. It happens in January and I think that I might give it a try!

What to do for fun

I love going to the NC State Football games, hanging out in my dorm room with my suitemates and enjoying the activities that are on campus that are planned for the students.

Food and Dining

Make sure that if you have the unlimited dining hall meal plan that you take advantage of it. Also, don't eat too much. It can cause you to gain weight before you even realize it.

Dorm Life

When I began school in August, I didn't know anyone here. I was an out-of-state student from Virginia. My roomate was from California and I had 2 suitemates. One of them was from NY and the other from Rocky Mount, NC. We have become best friends. I love living in the dorm because you get to meet so many new people. My RA made me feel comfortable and helped me out when I didn't know what to do or where I was supposed to be. The showers are kind of gross, but other than that, it's great.

Academic Rigor

Classes are tough. NC State is a tough school to get into and you better be prepared to work. I wanted a school that was going to challenge me, but if you are struggling the instructors are always willing to help you.

Tips for prospective students

1. When you begin college -- in general -- donÃ¢Â?Â?t be scared or freak out if you fail a test, there is a good chance that at some point you might not do as well as you think you should, just remember that the college accepted you for a reason, they know you can succeed. 2. Join clubs and get active in sports or whatever interests you early, thatÃ¢Â?Â?s the easiest and fastest way to make friends. You will have a bigger support system in your new Ã¢Â?Â?home away from homeÃ¢Â?Â? 3. Enjoy yourself and allow yourself to be open to new ideas, you may come into college thinking you know what you want to do with your life but itÃ¢Â?Â?s a strong chance that your plans will change, mine did, multiple times within the first 3 months.

In three sentences

I love NC State. The instructors are great and everyone is willing to make you feel comfortable. I love that the university is in the city, yet there is a real campus atmoshere here. I love the fact that there are so many opportunities for students to explore. I highly recommend NC State.

Dierdra from Apex, NC

You receive alerts via mobile devices when something as happened to warn you and keep you safe.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a tradition and it is called the Krispy Kreme Challenge and you have to eat a dozen doughnuts and run a mile!

What to do for fun

I like to watch movies with my friends. I don't go out much, but there is ALWAYS something going on on campus.

Food and Dining

The food is pretty good, but often times it is not good for you! You have to be able to make good decisions about what you eat to remain healthy!

Dorm Life

I really like my dorm, though the room isn't very big. i have a wonderful roommate who shares a lot of my interests. I also get to meet different people from around the world because my dorm is international.

Academic Rigor

Don't get me wrong, college is a lot of fun, but its is also a lot of work! be prepared to balance both the fun and the work, and you should have a wonderful experience.

Tips for prospective students

When applying for NC State it is important to have either good ACT or SAT scores. NC State is a very competitive school, so you really have to come at it with you A game! I would also encourage prospective students to be active in your school, by doing community services, and joining some clubs! Colleges do look at those kind of things... having a leadership role in either of those interests is also important.

In three sentences

NC State is a wonderful place, that provides many wonderful opportunities to students who are willing to work hard to be successful. I think that many people think that just because it is a university known for science, that all the other majors are inferior. This not true, and there are plenty of major to choose from, making it a truly amazing college experience!

Joshua from Carolina Beach, NC

11/25/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

NC State is dedicated to student safety. Located on campus, NC State houses its own police force. 51 officers serve campus students and staff. Not only are students and parents provided with campus police phone numbers for use at any time or in the need of emergencies, alerts are sent via text to students and parents. Also, campus police offer secure transport for students after 10 pm. Police officers promote safety in numbers or calling the campus police for a 'ride home.'

Greek Life

Many sororities and fraternities are housed on campus. Students involved in these groups provide campus service such as assisting students with transporting personal belongings on move-in day.

Clubs and Activities

Clubs are available through each individual college within the university. Activities occur continuously, literally from one end of the campus to the other. Signs and banners are posted and flying throughout the campus with opportunities to join.

Great for these types of students

NC State is great for the student who is 'available' to explore and is not afraid to ask for assistance. This university is great for 'extroverted' students who want to enhance their lives with the 'full college experience.'

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The 'Free Expression' tunnel is a favorite display of artistic ability. As long as it is 'free' of vulgarity, students have 'free reign' to display their artistic thoughts and expressions. Contests are evident within the walls of the tunnels between 'Colleges.'

Bang for the buck

While adjusting to college has been a drastic change for me, this opportunity is an invaluable experience. In addition to the provision of strong academic information, this college is opening doors for networking and my move past my immediate college career.

What to do for fun

College campuses have many avenues for fun! Intramural sports or informal games are often played during the week nights. Of course, college sanctioned sports games may be accessed through the lottery system; however, exhibition games are usually free and provide a vivid look at the talent for the upcoming season. In addition to sports, campus is made up of clubs, sororities, and fraternities for those that may be inclined toward organized group activities that may not be athletically based.

Food and Dining

The cafeteria food varies! Typically, at least one or two nights per week there will be a good variety of food that will be a 'favorite!' However, the bonus dollars that can be used toward 'fast food' establishments makes the 'all inclusive' meal plan the best for eating a variety of foods. This meal plan also affords eating approximately every 30 minutes and food can be removed from these facilities, taken to your room, and reheated for a 'late night snack!'

Dorm Life

Dorm life can be a very rewarding experience with a variety of personalities and new people to meet. You need to have an open mind as you meet each 'individual.' Each person has something new and different to bring to the experience and you should be open to what you may learn from the individual.

Academic Rigor

College can be an 'eye opening' experience! Coursework is rigorous and you need to be technologically alert or ready to access assistance in order to navigate classes. You must be prepared to work independently and complete tasks in a timely manner in order to maintain academic time lines.

Tips for prospective students

I would highly recommend that you learn to prioritize and use good work habits. Use of organizational strategies whether they be electronic or paper will enable you to maintain your workload. Use this time to develop study habits that will assist you applying the appropriate amount of time and energy to each of your courses!

In three sentences

NC State is the 'total' college package! This university offers a renowned academic education while providing opportunities for broadening my horizons. Staff members are always ready to assist in furthering my opportunities for expanding my knowledge base.

Lucia from Clayton, NC

12/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Probably the most important part of college life is safety, and I'm proud to say State doesn't let you down. There are emergency poles everywhere, and wherever you are on campus, there is at least me pole in sight. All you do is push a button to be connected to the police. They can also escort you places if it is late at nit and you are by yourself. Overall, the safety of students isn't only a student priority, it is a school priority as well.

Clubs and Activities

With over 400 clubs, State truly is as diverse as they come. If we don't have what you want, make it up yourself. We have clubs that range dramatically from sports to arts to drama to robotics. It's impossible to not find somewhere for you to fit in.

Great for these types of students

NSCU is great for students to that are innovative and wish to share that with the world. It is known for its engineering and agriculture colleges but every other college is just as great. If you have an idea that can change the world, or a plan to do something to better anything, NCSU is the place for you to go, mostly because of the connections you can make while going there. No goal is too big for State.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The best location which is slightly unusual on campus is the Free ExpressionTunnel, which is a tunnel that people, usually in clubs, will spray paint with either art or news or anything random they can think of. It surprisingly doesn't smell like spray paint all the time, just while they are painting, and that's usually at night so it's never a bother. The tunnel is super expressive and there's always some news pertinent to your interests there.

What to do for fun

For fun, one can hit hillsborough street for dinner, there's also the on campus cinema, and sports games every season. On top of that there is also always some activity that is going on on the weekends for people to attend. If staying in is your thing, there are a bunch of clubs that meet regularly, as well as lounge areas in every building so you can hang out with friends. There are no chances of you ever being bored at state.

Food and Dining

Options for dining as infinite. There are places on campus, like the Atrium with a Chick Fil A, there are also many dining halls places strategically where residence halls are, and also many coffee shops around. Also, off campus, we have hillsborough street which hosts over ten restaurants and coffee shops to visit should you choose to.

Dorm Life

Depending on where you live, you will find people to hang out with. The commodity of living on campus is something that no one can take for granted. Having everything within twenty minutes walking is fabulous. Also, you get to pick your top three choices for a residence hall, so you have all your preferences and NCSU staff makes a great job at matching you with someone that will become a great friend to you as the semester begins.

Academic Rigor

Classes are just like what college classes should be: if you study, visit professors in office hours, and do your readings, school suddenly becomes less daunting than you'd think. Many of State's professors hold PhD's which can be intimidating to people, but all it means is that they know how to answer your questions as thoroughly as possible.

Tips for prospective students

If you like a university that is incredibly historic, full of traditions, yet innovative and modern, this is the college for you. Although it is a city type college, the number of students you meet and see every day from your classes is astounding. You don't even notice it is such a big school. There's plenty to do, on campus as well as off campus, so there's no chances of being bored ever. The diversity on campus is also great for people that want to join a group of individuals with a shared common interest.

In three sentences

NCSU is extremely modern, diverse, and innovative. There is help available for incoming freshmen in practically every building, the questions that you don't find answers to online in their sophisticated computers you can find by talking to all your professors, who love to have students ask, and lastly, the availability of opportunities and chances of networking are immense. There is a reason people love NC State: it's mixture of history, tradition, and culture, with the modern diversity and unlimited opportunities make it a rich environment for anyone to grow into their potential.

Marschall from North Chesterfield, VA

There are multiple shopping malls around with stores and movie theaters and bowling alleys. Downtown Raleigh is home to many exciting art galleries and museums.

Food and Dining

The dining halls are pretty average for a college, but there are plenty of other options as well as lots of off-campus restaurants.

Dorm Life

I live in a dorm and I have really enjoyed getting to know all my suitemates.

Academic Rigor

You will have to make sure you take time out each week or weekend to review notes and study.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you take time each week to exercise. Finding an outlet for your body will help you to stay motivated and energetic throughout the day.

In three sentences

I have truly enjoyed my experience at NC State so far. My major is even more exciting than I expected, and I am currently trying to find ways to stay there as long as I can. I would recommend to NC State for anyone looking to attend college.

Jahnay from DURHAM, NC

12/26/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

GET INVOLVED!! THIS IS NOT A CLICHE! YOU REALLY SHOULD GET INVOLVED!! Pick at least two clubs/organization and join. They will be enjoyable and also pump up your resume. Make sure that you are more than just a member though. Strive to have an active role. That's what I'm working on. Also, there are tons of sporting events and dance concerts and things like that all of the time. There are things to do, you just have to look around a bit to find them sometimes.

Food and Dining

I'm biased. I am not a huge fan of fast food and NCSU provides Taco Bell (ew), some sub place (ew), the Atrium (has chik fil a, a salad place, pizza place, and Asian), and then the dining halls. The food is honestly lacking. Fountain dining hall is the worst.

Dorm Life

The dorms themselves aren't that bad. You can really dress up your room the way you want and it'll feel homey. I live in hall-style though and the people on the floor can be LOUD, especially at night. There are pros and cons to every living situation though so make sure that you pick what's right for you.

Academic Rigor

The classes are challenging, but only because the professors expect a lot from you. You got in for a reason and each year the bar is set a bit higher so you will have to prove that you deserve your spot. Warning: CHEM 101 IS HARD.

Tips for prospective students

Come in with an open mind. People say that college is the best time of your life and you can make it just that. Just remember that the parties aren't everything. Ultimately you are there to get a job done: graduate. Don't do anything to compromise that.

In three sentences

NCSU is a good school academic wise, but in the social arena I'd say it needs a little more work. They strive for diversity, but I as an African American student haven't seen all that much of it. Overall, it's a great school, but building solid friendships will definitely take some time.

There are lots of things to do for fun around campus, from clubs to shopping to bowling alleys or pool halls to hookah bars.

Tips for prospective students

There is about a 10 minute walk to some classes from certain dorms but it isn't too bad. Be prepared to be independent, and don't go home every weekend as a freshman! It just prolongs the separation from your parents. Living on campus is the best way to go.

In three sentences

They have great programs and are great for students in either engineering or agricultural studies, but also has many other majors. The campus is not too big and is pretty. It is in a great area if you need to go somewhere and want a variety.

Brittany from Raeford, NC

The campus is spread out , but they have ample campus security and security poles with emergency distress throughout the campus to help those out late at night.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many activities to be a part of. I personally joined the Center for Student Leadership, Ethics and Public Service (CSLEPS). I think it is healthy to become involved in one or two of the many clubs and activities.

Great for these types of students

I think NC State is great for students who are open and friendly. Students serious about getting a great education for the cost. Students looking for the down home friendly welcome to our campus.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Painting of the tunnel walls under the railroad tracks that split the campus. Students can go and spray paint anything as long as it is in good taste (not racial or hatred based) in the tunnel walls. You can spell out messages or do murals (it is whatever or how you want to express yourself).

Bang for the buck

I am a in-state student and can tell you the cost for tuition and housing is very reasonable. Consistently ranked as best bang for the bucks in Forbes Magazine.

What to do for fun

Raleigh has a lot to offer. There are so many great restaurants. If you are into sports then, the full gamete of college sports is open to you as a student (Go Pack). There is also a pro-hockey team in Raleigh. There are also a variety of nightclubs to go to dance.

Food and Dining

The dining facilities are outstanding. They provide a variety of entrees during the week and on weekend. They also have health and nutrition advisers to help students plan a healthy diet. I really enjoyed eating at the student dining facilities my first two years on campus. Well worth the meal plan I used (10 Meals/week). Be aware if you sign up for a meal plan they also require a board bucks plan of $100/semester that can be used at other dining facilities on campus or to supplement your meal plan. Really enjoyed the option.

Dorm Life

I was in the WISE program my first two years and found dorm life to be bonding since I was paired up with other science and engineering students. We all had a lot in common and the ability to study with others taking the same classes paid dividends in the long run.

Academic Rigor

I am double majoring in Chemical Engineering (ChemE) and Polymers and Color Chemistry (PCC). The courses I have taken in calculus and chemistry have been very challenging, but rewarding.

Tips for prospective students

If your are a women and want to pursue a degree in science or engineering, I would highly recommend the Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) program. They provide a support structure to incoming freshmen to ensure they succeed and achieve their goals.

In three sentences

Outstanding school and should be considered a number 1 choice. I found the students to be very friendly and open like being at home. For the most part professors are excellent and willing to help you if you ask.

Temina from Loudon, NH

You could go out shopping, go out clubbing, stay nearby and watch movies, play in the gym/recreational facilities, chill.

Food and Dining

Good considering that some colleges have way, way worse food and fewer options. Be glad our food is served warm.

Dorm Life

Good with the right people.

Academic Rigor

This really depends on your major and what classes you are taking together through each semester.

Tips for prospective students

Be social, be friendly, don't get caught breaking any rules, live clean, and enjoy the times things work out awesomely.

In three sentences

The college is fairly big, but comfortable when you nestle in the right way. Though there are limitations, this school does offer a lot if you know where to look. Be weary of bus transportation about campus; certain times yield no space for you on the bus.

Alex from China Grove, NC

01/25/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Very safe. They take very good care of us. We have emails from the police, weather company, and anything else that might put us in danger. I got an email one time about a rubbery that happened out side the campus it was like a couple of miles down the road but they wanted us to be aware of it.

Great for these types of students

If you like walking to class everyday and seeing a new face, this is the place for you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Well we have this thing at the beginning of the year, every year. Its called Wolfpack Welcome Week. Theres everything, games, prizes, food, free stuff, and tons of booths to get yourself into those clubs I was telling you about. I think its and interesting way to start school, normally you would have to party at the end of the year .

Bang for the buck

I think I am paying for the education that I would get at a place like Duke but I'm only paying a fraction of the cost.

What to do for fun

There are clubs in down town but i know this is for on campus. For that there are so many clubs you wont know what to do with yourself. Then always something happening in your dorm. Lots of programs in Talley Center. Then the movies theatre on campus, yes I said on campus.

Food and Dining

Food! Its pretty good. They are building a new area thats going to be full of more food places. But the things that are open now are good. If you mix it up you should be good, lots of variety.

Dorm Life

The dorm I live in is kinda small but there are better and bigger rooms because of rebuilding things and such. There are more than even places on campus to live and for the most part they are good. Then there are so many places off campus that you could live for actually less than you would pay to stay in a dorm.

Academic Rigor

I have a boyfriend who goes to another college and he never has any homework or anything, mean while I am over here working so hard. In high school I had the better SAT and GPA. I have to say its harder but I believe that this is a good thing. They challenge you.

Tips for prospective students

There has only been one problem for me and its the cold. We had snow here today and the school canceled classes after 12 but I had a class at 10:15 all the way across campus that was a very interesting walk.

In three sentences

Its great here. The teachers and staff work as hard as they can to get you to where you have always dreamed and sometime farther. The school makes it easy for you to find help any where: tutor center, tutors for almost every class, SI students to hold extra periods for you to get help, programs the help you find people around you that are in the same classes so you always have someone to ask questions to.

Katelan from Hickory, NC

There are emergency stations all over campus and there are less than 10 crime alerts in a semester here so every student can feel safe and at home.

Greek Life

The Greek Life is ravishing here at NC State with their annual initiation's and proud brother and sisterhood's, this is definitely a life to consider if you chose to come to NC State!

Clubs and Activities

There are over 100 clubs and activities at NC State. We have many sororities and Fraternities as well as academic clubs and meetings, not to mention the large amounts of sports and one student could play here.

Great for these types of students

NC State is great for students who are looking for an education that will get them a job once they graduate yet they are looking to meet friends and have a social life while they are on their way to graduation.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The brickyard is located in front of the cafeteria and the library and is almost the heart of campus. Everyday students walk through here and hear students voicing their opinions on current issues or get to shop at the market that visits every Wednesday. There is no telling what you can find to do on the Brickyard.

Bang for the buck

You are really getting what you pay for at State with the large rooms, broad variety of dining, excellent teachers, and large selection of extracurricular's. I do not know of any other University that offers as much for the students as State.

What to do for fun

If you are the athletic type the gym stays open late and there are many intramural teams that you can enjoy. If not, you can enjoy the many clubs, Greek fraternities/sororities, or audition for a role in the next big play!

Food and Dining

The food selection at NC State is probably the largest of any college I have ever visited. We have three main dining halls that serve delicious food as well as restaurants such as Taco Bell and Chick-fil-a! We are also getting many more son such as Jason's deli.

Dorm Life

The dorms are all clean and spacious and create an environment for not only you and your room mate to bond but also your suite mates or neighbors down the hall.

Academic Rigor

Although so far State seems like a lot of play and no work, the truth is that students hit the books hard when it comes down to the nitty gritty. Students are in the library till four am studying almost every night of the week.

Tips for prospective students

Really get to know people and don't sit in your dorm because State has amazing intramural sports leagues as well as group fitness classes that are extremely fun.

In three sentences

There are bricks everywhere you look, except for one building on campus. The atmosphere is educational, yet students can feel like they are at home. Lastly, every student here has pride in their school colors and join together to create a family!

Jennifer from TX

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

There is crime everywhere, NC State is no exception. You can be escorted by the police at night for free and emergency blue towers line the streets.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Krispe Kreme Challenge! Run a few miles to the only Krispe Kreme in Raleigh, eat a dozen donuts, and run back! ...or you can just buy the shirt. Proceeds go to the Children's Hospital.

Bang for the buck

Not bad education for not a bad price.

What to do for fun

Concerts on campus and plenty of movie nights and other activities with groups

Food and Dining

Not a bad array of food at the on campus dining halls.

Dorm Life

All NC State dorms have mini fridge w/ freezer and microwave included! The bedrooms I saw were two girls to a fairly spacious room, however some of the girl's halls have 8 girls to one shower and two sinks. Girls living there say you get used to it and shower schedules usually work out.

Academic Rigor

The NC State Engineering program is one of their best academic programs.

Tips for prospective students

There are plenty of ways to get involved, and you should!

In three sentences

Bang for your buck: not so bad education for not a bad price. NC State has a big, beautiful campus and has plenty of venues for the arts. It is big enough to feel like a number, but with involvement you could stand out.

Moni from Morrisville, NC

05/06/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are many traditions on campus, all covered by what is known as the Brick, a booklet of forty or fifty different traditions including, but not limited to the annual chocolate festival, rubbing the head of the strolling professor before your first chem exam, attending an NC State sporting event, and TONS more.

Hall style, sweet style, no matter; it's a big community with lots of residence hall activities as well as inter-residence activities (and study rooms/sessions)!

Academic Rigor

NC State professors and TAs really know how to push students to do the best they can and offer assistance as much as needed to help the student succeed. The students are also motivated to do well in their classes.

Tips for prospective students

1. The marching band is awesome. If you're in band, audition for marching band. 2. Animal lover? Perfect place for you! 3. Play hard, study harder. 4. Go study at the Hunt library. No, really. Do it.

In three sentences

NCSU is not only a nationally known institute for engineering, but also a great school for a number of many other majors. The people here at NC State challenge you to build you up and motivate you as much as they encourage you. Here, everyone is a family working towards a goal for success.

Christopher from Raleigh, NC

A nice crime reporting system. A few incidents a year, but if you take the necessary precautions there is not much problem.

Greek Life

They tend to stay to themselves. Not a whole lot of presence of the actual campus.

Clubs and Activities

A large variety of clubs and actives are available for students. Not all clubs are registered with the school, but still operate in the same manner as a school recognized club/organization.

Great for these types of students

Students who are interested in engineering or the applied sciences. The Design school is good but geared towards the Architecture students. Fun loving people who understand the importance of performing well.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The free expression tunnel can be cool because it is always changing and new almost every day. The various wolf sculptors around campus give a lot of life to the are. The brand new Student Union is amazing.

Bang for the buck

Great education for the price for an instate student. Not sure if it is worth it for an out of state student without a scholarship of some kind.

What to do for fun

NCSU is right next to downtown Raleigh, so First Friday is a great event to attend. The school's sporting events are always popular, and there are a lot of shops and malls close by.

Food and Dining

A fair variety of dining options on campus. The dining halls can get old fast, however.

Dorm Life

Some dorms are nicer than others, but overall they all create a nice sense of community if you are willing to get to know the people around you. The facilities are always being updated, even though some of the buildings are rather old.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor varies fairly greatly depending on your Major. Overall classes tend to be on the easier side if you just do the work you are suppose to.

Tips for prospective students

Surround yourself with successful people. Focus on school above social activities if you want to get the most out of your education. Stay focused and remember that you are preparing yourself for the rest of your life.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is a welcoming community. The student body and teaching staff are great and always willing to help. And I have enjoyed my time at NCSU.

Grace from Garner, NC

05/21/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Bang for the buck

Tuition is worth every penny, especially for the in-state price!

What to do for fun

You can do anything you want on the weekend. Campus is located in downtown and everything is within walking distance. I personally like to go bowling with friends or hang out in the brick yard. Another favorite is the free expression campus.

Food and Dining

One of the better college campuses I've eaten at, and that's saying a lot!

Dorm Life

I personally didn't live in a dorm, but I hear it's outstanding.

Academic Rigor

I find the classes quite challenging, but doable. If you are motivated they aren't a problem.

Tips for prospective students

Figure out where all of your classes are the day before school starts. Also know about how long it will take you to get there so you are on time. Showing up early for class never hurts either.

In three sentences

Overall an amazing choice for college. The education and degree attained here is among the top.

Kalysha from Raleigh, NC

05/26/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

NC State has a campus escort program, but it doesn't start until 10, which is a problem during the fall when it gets dark outside around 7. Lately, there have been a lot of crimes happening on and around campus. There's currently a student organization working with legislators to pass a concealed carry law so students can carry on campus. Campus police also offered RAD (Rape Aggression Defense) courses for students to learn defense and there's also a PE class on Self-Defense.

Any kinds! NC State is very diverse and offers a lot. We have so many different people here who are from different walks of life.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's the free expression tunnel, which students guard during the Ram Roast to prevent students from our rival university UNC Chapel Hill from coming and painting the tunnel blue. There's also the belltower that lights up red after NC State wins a game. There's the strolling professor, a statue that you're supposed to rub before your tests for good luck.

Bang for the buck

Compared to other universities, I think NC State has an affordable tuition rate, but after all the other fees you have to pay, it gets kind of expensive. Parking passes are super expensive too, and then you can never find a spot, or have to park on the other side of campus from your classes.

What to do for fun

The state fair comes to Raleigh around October, which is always supposed to be fun. You can also go downtown for First Friday every month, which features free entry to galleries, free food, and giveaways. The museums are all downtown and my favorite, the museum of natural sciences, features a daily cafe on Thursday nights with guest speakers and trivia. Also, Hillsborough street has a lot of small businesses such as the bowling alley, coffee shops, and and other fun places to hang out.

Food and Dining

The dining hall I had access to was terrible. Pretty much, the only thing I ate there was cereal. There are two other dining halls on campus. One is for the other side of campus. One is open to anyone for lunch, but only athletes for dinner. (I hear they get lobster and steak, but who knows).

Dorm Life

I lived in the dorms for 1.5 years. I lived in two different dorms on West Campus. I hated them both. The water pressure in the showers was terrible, not to mention the fact that it was one shower shared between 8 girls. The walls in the rooms were paper thin and people would be as loud as possible 24/7. I did not like dorm life at all and was extremely happy to move off campus.

Academic Rigor

NC State has several programs that are just as tough no matter where you go, but it also has programs that it's very well known for, such as engineering. Any engineer student here will tell you that some of their classes are extremely difficult. For the science majors such as myself, classes like Organic Chemistry and Physics are challenging.

Tips for prospective students

Don't come in expecting a joy ride. College is tough and NC State is known for some of the best academic programs in the state and the country. My biggest tips: always go to office hours or make appointments with your professors - it could be the difference between a C and a B! Learn how to study! A lot of students tell me that they didn't have to study in high school and so they don't know the proper way to study. Different courses require different methods of studying/learning. Seek help from the Undergraduate Tutorial Office!

In three sentences

It's a huge campus with a variety of students and programs. There's always something to do. There's great potential for networking with professionals in Raleigh and professors at the school!

Albert from Charlotte, NC

05/31/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

North Carolina State University provides hundreds of opportunities to have fun outside of school work. Club and intramural sports allow students to engage in friendly competition between fellow students. Also, the organization UAB provides many school events like dances. There is a bowling alley just outside campus and a very useful gym for working out and playing sports.

Food and Dining

The food is exceptional from the dining halls to the fast food options. Dining halls are buffets where you have many selections of food. Also, on campus, there is a Chick-Fil-A, Jason's Deli, Chinese food, Mexican food, wrap station, and sub station.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is exceptional because you will meet people from all walks of life and will quickly make friends. Living with a roommate is a great experience and helps prepare you for life after college. Also, there are many activities that are put on by Residential Advisors.

Academic Rigor

College is not too difficult if you understand the time it takes to do well in each course. Studying for hours is necessary in order for you to pass courses and eventually graduate.

Tips for prospective students

Prospective students should try to come without any expectations of college life because they will be blow away with the hundreds of opportunities. Also, they should not be afraid to quickly join organizations with other students with similar interest. Friends are a huge part of the college experience and will make it more enjoyable.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is a huge college, however it has a small college feel because of the familiar faces you will constantly see. Diversity is strongly encourage through school wide events as well as the Free Expression Tunnel, where anyone can paint a message. Most important, all the students feel close to each other and openly welcome everyone.

CK from Raleigh, NC

Girls, DO NOT WALK ALONE AT NIGHT, seriously. Always be aware of your surroundings and walk with at least 2 other people at night.

Greek Life

I was not a part of the Greek Life, but I hear it's fun.

Clubs and Activities

So many sports teams, so get involved!

Great for these types of students

Students who like a big campus feeling, where everyday you'll pass someone new.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The free expression tunnel is a central spot on campus. Make sure you leave your mark on the tunnel (literally!).

What to do for fun

There is lots to do for fun... hike at Lake Johnson, hangout downtown, go to the museums... the list is endless.

Food and Dining

The dining halls are hit or miss. You can always count on Chick Fil A or Lil Dinos though!

Dorm Life

Dorm life is....well dorm life. It's great to roll out of bed and walk to class. I'd suggest getting a dorm close to one of the dining halls. You'll appreciate that when its freezing cold or raining cats and dogs!

Academic Rigor

NC State is very challenging... especially in STEM subjects (math, engineering, physics, chemistry, etc). You will definitely work hard!

Tips for prospective students

Buy your books early, and research professor reviews before signing up for classes.

In three sentences

NC State is a great school. Instructors are great and courses are challenging. The campus has a diverse population.

Brenda from Raleigh, NC

On Hillsborough street, there are countless places you can go to. Pullen park is decently close to the campus so you can enjoy a day in the park.

Food and Dining

The campus has surprisingly good food in their food courts and dining halls.

Dorm Life

You get to meet the greatest friends you will make in your life.

Academic Rigor

You are constantly being challenged by your coursework.

Tips for prospective students

Always go to office hours and SI sessions if you want to pass your classes, especially the challenging ones.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is overall a great school. The professors are eager to help you succeed, as long as you are willing to help yourself. The school provides many resources to aid with your studies as well. I am glad I chose to go to NCSU.

Shakira from St. Pauls, NC

06/04/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

A student can feel very safe on campus during the day or at night. There are always campus police patrolling and if you don't feel safe you can call them for an escort. There are also blue lights all over campus which you can press if you feel you're being followed or would like to call for help.

Great for these types of students

NC State is great for students who like agriculture and animals. There is a large calling for students of that nature. Also, anyone who enjoys engineering would fit right in. There is also a big skateboarding crowd on campus and they like to go around and skate and do tricks, even inviting children from the local middle and high schools. As long as you like red and the Wolfpack, you're bound to find someone that enjoys your company.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Camp Out is a tradition at State where students camp out in the basketball stadium overnight to earn points to use in the lottery for basketball tickets. They get to meet the team and coaches, watch a scrimmage game, and enjoy lots of other activities while hanging out with friends. There is also the Walking Professor, a statue on campus, whose head students rub before Chemistry exams. He's said to give students good look. One big thing about State is the bricks. They are everywhere and every student knows that you have to watch how you step when walking on campus because the bricks can trip you at any moment.

What to do for fun

There are always sporting events to go to. Students get in free to every event, even Men's Basketball and Football, although a ticket from the lottery is required for those. Dorms hold fun events for the students on campus. UAB and IRC, two big student organizations on campus, also hold campus wide events that build community and offer entertainment for students. There is a bowling alley near campus that offers free bowling on Thursday nights and an on campus movie cinema that discounts prices for students and shows the latest films.

Food and Dining

There are plenty of dining options. There are the normal dining halls, which are located in three different places on campus. There are also places like Talley and the Atrium, which offer more variety such as Chic Fil A, McDonalds, and wrap and sub places. Not far off campus is Hillsborough St, which offers a wide range of foods that you can choose from if you don't want campus food.

Dorm Life

Most dorms house the friendliest of people. You build something more than friendships, you build family. You create bonds that aren't easily broken and will follow you into the future. There is always something interesting going on at one dorm or another. It's also a very safe environment.

Academic Rigor

Professors are tough but very willing to help you with anything you need as long as you make the effort. The number one goal of NC State is to have every student do well on their grades but not slide by easily. It is difficult at times but with things like study groups, office hours, and 24 hour library service, it is definitely possible to pass with flying colors.

Tips for prospective students

Make as many friends as you can because they will definitely come in handy. One great thing about State is that it isn't hard to make friends because everyone is extremely friendly. Also, don't keep the mindset that you had in high school, the professors and environment are way different.

In three sentences

NC State has a wonderful atmosphere and community. It's a large school, but you will feel like you're part of a small town. There is always something fun and interesting to do on campus.

The dining hall food is better than I've had at nearly all other cafeterias, and there is so much variety and availability all across campus.

Dorm Life

Nice housing and rooms, you are responsible for how outgoing you want to be and how your rooming and roommate situations ultimately turn out.

Academic Rigor

Classes are definitely challenging. There are many many resources, assistance, and tutoring available to help.

Tips for prospective students

Keep your mind open to change, because your plans might end up turning out much differently than you originally expected. Always give your full 100%, use your time wisely, and make sure to set time aside for yourself.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University has so much variety and adequate resources in order for any student who attends to be able to succeed. The school spirit and pride that is practiced during sporting events, showings, in the classroom, and across campus daily makes NC State welcoming and a place that makes one feel at home. Opportunities here helps make nearly anything possible.

Amanda from Columbia, SC

06/16/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Greek Life

Greek Life is amazing! There is always something to do, somewhere to go. Everyone is super friendly. The community is close, the majority of the houses are on Fraternity court, a huge loop surrounding hilly fields, so everyone can be a short distance from other chapters and events are held in the center of the court. Also, all the houses are being rebbuilt! YAY! The KD house is the only one done so far, but it is great, and the Sigma Nu one is rising up next to it, also looking great!

Bang for the buck

I am an out of state student here for the engineering program so its worth the extra out of state cost, but I dont know how worth it that would be if I was not in such a good program.

Food and Dining

The dining hall food is decent, though it is usually pretty bland and there arent many options. But they have started doing special days (usually related to holidays and events) where they spice up the food and its actually good, like Mardi Gras day, or St. Patricks day, Octoberfest, and Make-Your-Own banana split day. And then there's Talley and the Atrium, which have your Chick-fil-a, pizza, subs, burger place. And they are currently rennovating Talley to have even more options.

Dorm Life

The dorms are are on the larger, nicer side. I stayed in Lee Hall my freshman year, and those rooms are the biggest. Over the past few years the university has been renovating all the dorms and putting in new furniture and it is now very very nice. Also, they are strategically placed near food and classes. Lee was right next to a dining hall, and some of the other dorms are right in the middle of campus, less than a minute from class.

Academic Rigor

My major is Biomedical engineering, which is one of the most competitive engineering majors in an already very competitive school. The classes weed out the weak, so only the cream of the crop - those who work the hardest - are left and that's why NC State is one of the top ranked engineering schools and has an even higher ranked Biomedical Engineering program.

Madison from Willard, NC

07/01/2013

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Food and Dining

If you like dining hall food, then more power to you. But if you don't, there are options for what you want to eat while you're on campus with your dining plan. The Atrium is a great eating place because you have more choices for what to eat and the food costs one equivalency. It honestly depends on your tastes.

Dorm Life

While not all of the dorms are huge, NC State keeps their dorms clean and comfortable to create a home away from home feel. If you're interested in living in a living and learning village, the applications are simple and you can have a smaller community of friends to help you through college. Some of the dorms are right next to the halls where your classes will be, so you don't have to walk as far, either. The dorms don't allow for alcohol, drugs or smoking, but friends are the better choice in the end.

Academic Rigor

It really depends on the classes you chose to take during your stay at NC State. Some class sizes are smaller, and some are not; and you'll have to be the one to figure out what you have to do. WebAssign makes some of the homework simpler to do, and some of it is more difficult. But it really depends on your motivation in the end as to how well you do in your classes.

Tips for prospective students

Don't think that NC State is wrong for you just because you may not have the money, and don't be afraid to apply yourself while in school. Get out and meet new people, and don't get involved with the wrong crowd.

In three sentences

Though it is a large campus, NC State has a lot of majors offered and great opportunities to make the campus smaller. There are tons of different options for living environments, from living and learning villages that have a passion for children to apartments for newlyweds. At the end of the day, NC State is a great choice for college because of all of the different opportunities present for different people.

Martin from Fayetteville, NC

07/17/2013

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Bang for the buck

A top engineering school at the In-State price.....

In three sentences

North Carolina State University has a great campus with an amazing engineering program. After spending a week on campus for an engineering camp, I became familiar with the campus and fell in love with the school. This is the school for me.

You can pick fantastically healthy options, but some of the entrees in the dining halls aren't veg friendly. The salad bars are amazing, and Hillsborough St. and Mission Valley have some tasty places to grab cheap eats.

Dorm Life

Some of the dorms are outdated.

Academic Rigor

STEM classes are definitely difficult, and the intro classes are weed out classes. Humanities are challenging as well.

Tips for prospective students

Bypass intro classes by taking AP or community college, then take the awesome labs that State has to offer. Don't live in the college apartments because it's more expensive as the dorms. Take 8 at State (Health and Physical Education classes). Work hard, and play hard.

In three sentences

NC State has southern charm and a fun city feel being right in Raleigh. Classes are big for STEM classes, but small and personable for Humanities. Professors love to chat with you!

Whitney from Salisbury, NC

08/08/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There is a very good system for campus safety where emails or text messages are sent out if something is happening on part of campus called Wolf alerts. You never feel threatened on campus, there are many blue lights around, and also the police officers are actually Raleigh police, not just Campus police.

Greek Life

Greek life at NC State does not make up a significant amount of the students. Many students who are not in Sororities or Fraternities still have many friends who are members. You can attend semi-formals and Formals if invited and it's not necessarily required that you be in the Greek system to go to these different events. They have the best tailgates at football games and those are also open to everyone. The level of Greek life at NC State is a good one and most of the people are very nice and down to earth.

Clubs and Activities

Literally any club you can imagine we have. It's a very diverse variety of options and it's fun to try something that you've never done before.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

At NC State we have some pretty cool places and traditions. There is a tunnel that mostly everyone walks to in order to get to class called the Free Expression tunnel. You're supposed to spray-paint your name on on the walls during your Freshman year at school. The tunnel constantly changes and is never the same two days in a row. A tradition that we have at State is the Ram Roast. Usually on a Thursday or Friday before we play UNC Chapel Hill we all go to the brickyard where there are lots of different activities to do like scavenger hunts for prizes and things like that. Also, before we play Carolina in basketball we have a big campout at the PNC Arena in order to get points to receive tickets to the game.

What to do for fun

There are countless opportunities offered at NC State. There are multiple intramural leagues, gym classes and sports clubs available to students. If you aren't into sports there are many academic, community service, and other types of clubs on campus as well. NC State is located very close to downtown Raleigh so there are always different activities going on there throughout the weeks and weekends. Also, the school has concerts and different events throughout the year including screen on the green which is a movie outside on the grass, we have our own movie theater on campus and also our own bowling alley. There is never a shortage of things to do.

Food and Dining

There are tons of options for food here. The three main dining halls on campus are called Fountain, Case, which is open to all students except for at dinner where only athletes can eat there, and Clark. All of these provide vegetarian and veagan options as well. Additionally there is Talley student center which is being added onto and will eventually have four new restaurants. As of now it has a taco bell, a sandwich shop, a smoothie place and the Wolve's Den which is downstairs. The Wolve's Den serve things like cheeseburgers, hot wings, grilled chicken sandwiches and mac&cheese. The Atrium is another place to eat and most people go there for lunch in between classes. It is located in the middle of campus in the brickyard and has a Chikfila, a wrap station, an italian station, and a Chinese area that serves sushi as well as sesame chicken. Overall, there's never a shortage of food and there are plenty of restaurants on Hillsborough or Avent Ferry if you feel like eating off campus.

Dorm Life

The dorms are a little outdated but they just renovated many of them so now they have all new appliances and are much nicer. The RA's are very helpful and if you have a problem with your roommate they will help you work it out. All of the dorms are conveniently located and are, for the most part, split up into different programs and majors. There are many villages that you can live in within each dorm but most Freshman are housed in Central Campus which is closer to classes.

Academic Rigor

The first year was much harder than high school. The first semester was hard but the second semester was much more stressful. Physics is the most challenging course for most Freshman students so be prepared to allot a decent amount of time outside of class to study if you want to maintain decent grades. Your freshman year you'll most likely be in classes that are pretty big. As long as you sit somewhere in the middle it doesn't seem so big. Just make sure to show up to class because some classes that are big still have TA's that take attendance.

Tips for prospective students

Before classes start find the mobile app that gives you directions to all of the buildings that you need to go to. Walk out your schedule so that you know where you are going during the first week of classes because it is a very big campus and confusing at first. Also, join as many clubs as possible and be involved in all of the pre-class activities because there are lots of free things given out and you'll meet many new people.

In three sentences

An amazing school to attend. It is a very big school but has a small town feel to it. Everyone is extremely nice and I am lucky to have the opportunity to attend here.

The krispy kreme challenge, I never participated but Im told its amazing to watch. 4 miles, 12 dounuts, 2400 calories..... what could go wrong.

What to do for fun

Raleigh has soooo many things to do and state always has something going on. I really enjoyed the football games and the flea market at the state fair on the weekends is fun.

Food and Dining

There are many places to eat on campus and right off campus, you will definitely not go hungery.

Dorm Life

I cant really comment on this from experience but my friends said that they had a great time. There is always something going on.

Academic Rigor

Some of the classes were very difficult and at a small school or community college would have been much easier.

Tips for prospective students

If you are freaked out by large classes probably not the best place to go. However, after your freshman year the classes get much smaller, still large compared to a small school though. Also, get involved in a club or two I wish I had.

In three sentences

NC state was a great school with many opportunities. Most of the teachers were great, however in such a large school it is difficult to get to know your proffessors. Overall, I loved NC state and would love to go back.

Getting involved on campus and helping others out. Making new friends and going out together. Anything can be made into fun, and there are always activities to do at the school!

Food and Dining

Average. Not too great but when you're hungry and running off of nothing, it's pretty delicious.

Dorm Life

Never stayed in a dorm but from what I've heard its terribly small. On the reverse side though, its a great place to meet people and socialize!

Academic Rigor

It's tough. Not at all like high school where no one really tried that hard. It's either you get or you don't but seek out the various help facilities that the school offers. If not then you're out of luck.

Tips for prospective students

Don't get caught up in all the fun and parties. Before you know it, one or two hangovers later you've missed a couple of assignments. Have fun but limit yourself. Do, get out and get involved! Learn about the school and join something.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is a place that offers you an experience on many different levels. It's loud, crazy, rambunctious, but at the same time still manages to keep a balanced calamity. It might be different but definitely a place one could get used to.

Lane from Raleigh, NC

I don't feel safe on campus. If they would let me, I would carry a concealed. I have been stalked, there are several beggers on campus, and near dusk there is a lot of shady characters about.

Greek Life

A bunch of drugged up sex addicts.

Clubs and Activities

These are actually the only things tolerable on campus.

Great for these types of students

Lazy, people who like to party hard, sex addicts.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

All the traditions here are a mockery to higher education.

Bang for the buck

I am in debt $20,000 for one year and I have another $4,000 to pay off. I wasn't able to go to Chicago for finances, however this isn't much better.

What to do for fun

There's nothing to do for fun.

Food and Dining

They have awful hours. They have awful food. And they try to have special days of food that ends up sucking.

Dorm Life

The people are not nice.

Academic Rigor

It is way overrated.

Tips for prospective students

Do not come here. Choose a UNC school, even if it's like Pembrooke. NC State is not as good as you believe.

In three sentences

An overrated university that is glorified through a few people who have been successful. A disorganized mess that seems to have little management or structure. A culture of apathy from every level resulting in an abortion of higher education.

Elizabeth from Wilmington, NC

10/10/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The police on campus are always patrolling. There is wolf alerts that are sent by text and email to notify the campus if anything is going on. There are also emergency stands that if you press the button a police will show up at.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs and activities that a person can get involved in on campus. There is really something for everyones interest from sports to academics to religious groups.

What to do for fun

There are so many options. There are buses that will take you downtown or to the mall. There is Hillsborough Street that always has something going on. There are also so many clubs and activities going on you will never be bored.

Food and Dining

The food varies from day to day at the dining halls. There are the more upscale dining areas that are good very day. There is nothing on campus that can beat the home cooking by your family though.

Dorm Life

The dorms are nice, depending on where you are staying they vary in size. The housekeepers keep the common areas very clean. The only down side is the bathroom/showers are small.

Academic Rigor

The classes are no joke. The professors are very passionate about the subject they are teaching, which makes it more enjoyable but depending on the class they there is difficult material to be learned. There is also a lot of material you have to work through alone, the professors just post notes online to help guide you.

Tips for prospective students

Attend class and try to get your work done soon after it is assigned or you might forget about it. Get involved this is a great way to meet new friends. Have a great time your in college!

Michele from Goldsboro, NC

10/16/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

NC State really takes campus safety seriously. Since it is located in a city as big as Raleigh, there is crime that happens around the campus. The university has alerts set up to email students about crimes that happen on or any where near the campus. They have had several testings of the warning systems during the school day, and fire drills have been held for every building. And if you every feel unsafe walking back to your dorm at night, there is an on-campus police escort that will drive you back. I feel very safe on this campus!

Greek Life

I am not involved in Greek Life, but some of my friends are and they tell it is great. They really enjoy the diversity of fraternities and sororities here, and there is a place for every one interested in Greek Life. From leadership to engineering, there are plenty of options for any student to get involved in Greek Life. Go Greek!

Clubs and Activities

There are so many clubs and activities offered here, that there is something here for anyone. I am involved in the WISE and Scholars programs which offer events for students part of these programs to attend. I am also involved with Wolfpack Motorsports, which builds Formula and Baja cars. But if you are not interested in things like that, there are plenty of other options to choose from, you just have to go out and find it.

Great for these types of students

Since NC State is such a big engineering school, it is great for anyone who wants to go into the STEM field. It's the best fit for students who want to apply their academic work to the real world.

What to do for fun

There's plenty of things to do for fun. You have the entire city of Raleigh to explore, which offers a lot of stores and places to have fun at. Plus there's always something to do on or around the campus. The Alley on Hillsborough Street has free bowling on Wednesday nights for students. There are plenty of club sports to get involved in, and you can always hang out with all the new friends you've made!

Food and Dining

The food here is great! The Atrium serves New York styled pizza, sushi, salads, and Chic-fil-a. The dining halls have the best breakfast I've had during a school year, and their lunch and dinner options are like home cooked meals. I honestly eat more here than I have ever at my own home. They have great options and you can always find something to satisfy your cravings.

Dorm Life

Most people dread living in a dorm room, but I love it! I have stayed in a hall style, and am currently living in a suite style dorm. Hall style is great for people who want to get to know a lot people on a floor because people's doors are always open. It is great for getting to know a lot of people at once, which is good when you are on such a big campus. Suite style is great for getting to know a few people really well. My suitemates and I get along perfectly, and we go out all the time together. They really become your new best friends. I highly suggest staying in the dorms for the first year. It really helps you to establish relationships with people you may know for years.

Academic Rigor

The classes here really challenge you. It's great because the academic work never bores me, and really pushes me to use my head.

Tips for prospective students

Get as involved as you can in any clubs or activities that interest you. Don't sit around in your dorm room all day! Go out and study hard during the day, but take time in the evenings and on the weekends to go out, make friends, and have fun. It is up to you to make the most of your college experience.

In three sentences

Challenging academics and exciting clubs and activities. Great location in the city of Raleigh. Go Pack!

Kelly from Jamestown, NC

10/30/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Hang out in the brickyard, there's always something happening there. Eat at the creamery, we have the greatest ice cream. Walk through the free expression tunnel, someone is always painting it at night. Go to a football game, the stadium is huge. This is college, there's always something happening.

Food and Dining

Talley just reopened, needless to say the food just got a million times better. Dining halls are dining halls and they keep the best food for the athletes. Fountain is the biggest and most convenient to Lee, Sullivan, and Bragaw. Case is closed to non-athletes during dinner but it is the best dining hall. The atrium is on main campus and closest to the library. Clark is the dining hall by the honor's college's housing. The food is average like fountain.

Dorm Life

Live on campus your first year. You will regret it if you do not. Yes dorms can be loud and occasionally things break in a suite, but you will regret missing out on the experience. Lee and Sullivan are newly renovated so the furniture is nicer and they're suites. Lee's rooms are a bit bigger. Bragaw is suite living and the showers are bigger than Lee's. Owen and Tucker are freshman dorms and are the liveliest. Hall living in those buildings. The Tri-Towers are relatively nice and are on main campus which is very convenient. If you enjoyed an extremely long walk to campus, live in Avent Ferry. Honor's Quad is very quiet but nice.

Academic Rigor

Classes are difficult but as long as you put the work and effort in, your grades will show it.

Tips for prospective students

Keep your high school grades up high, this is not the easiest of universities to get into. Also be prepared to work hard and understand that college is not easy.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is one of the most down to earth universities in the state of North Carolina. There is a very easy going environment with a million research and other educational opportunities here. The faculty wants you to succeed and will make sure you do.

Brooke from Kinston, NC

There are over 400 clubs on campus, covering all different types of interests, and if you want to start one, all you have to do is get 5 other students together and you can get funding and approval.

Great for these types of students

Hard-working, STEM-oriented, openminded students looking for a practical education that will get them a job while being surrounded by others who are smart, insightful, and creative.

Bang for the buck

NC State has been rated multiple times on value. It's a state school, so tuition is low, especially for in-state students, and if you major in a STEM discipline, you're almost guaranteed a good job.

What to do for fun

Raleigh is the state capital, so there is always something to do. Downtown Raleigh is a short (2-3 minute) drive away from campus, and this allows for a lot of easy opportunities for entertainment. There is a thriving music scene, with lots of venues nearby, and the food options downtown are great. Also nearby are Chapel Hill and Durham, both of which are other college towns with performing arts centers, music venues, clubs, and restaurants.

Food and Dining

There are 3 dining halls on campus, as well as 3 food courts that have both chain restaurants (Chik-fil-A, Jason's Deli, etc.) and restaurants that only exist at NC State. There is a lot of food diversity, but sometimes the quality is low, especially with the Asian-inspired food places. Meal plans only work on campus; there is no agreement with outside restaurants, so if you don't want to spend extra money, you're stuck on campus.

Dorm Life

There are many different housing options, including residence halls (both hall and suite style), student apartments, and special housing for students with families or older/special students. Many of the dorms are old, and even if they are renovated, they are not very aesthetically pleasing from the outside. Also, the size varies greatly; it's the same price for rooms that are half the size of other rooms. Also, the Housing department is nitpicky and sometimes condescending.

Academic Rigor

I am an engineering major, and my courses are very difficult. I study around 5-6 hours a day to keep my GPA high, and tests and assignments are both educational and difficult; there is little busywork. Humanities courses tend to be easier, because NC State is STEM-focused, but maybe they just seem easy in comparison to engineering courses. Regardless, in general, STEM courses are excessively difficult (leading to employment for graduates), and humanities courses are difficult but not overly so.

Tips for prospective students

It is getting progressively more difficult to get into State, as average SAT scores and GPAs continue to increase. Don't overlook math and science courses in high school; State looks very closely at these grades. Also, take as many AP courses as you can. State grants a lot of credit for AP courses, and it might help you place out of GEP or basic major courses.

In three sentences

NC State is a large, research, primarily STEM-focused university that also has strong programs in business and the humanities and social sciences. Because of its large size, there are virtually countless opportunities for students, and a large amount of support for beginning new ventures. If you are looking for a strong, industry-recognized education in STEM, NC State is for you, but State also has historically impactful programs in Design and Agricultural Sciences.

Megan from Raleigh, NC

12/27/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Already, Raleigh is a much safer area than I am used to. We have a blue light program, including the erection of many poles with blue lights at the top with a campus police button. These can be found all over campus. Our wolfalert system notifies students and parents through texts, twitters, emails (whichever you prefer) each time crime happens on campus. Luckily, we get these texts infrequently.

Greek Life

Greek Life is not as prominent at NCSU, but there are still plenty of frat parties to attend. NCSU is not very preppy and contains a nice mix of students.

Clubs and Activities

I found that there are always many activities going on around campus. Many of these are advertised in the brickyard and in the dorms. I enjoy many of the events and as always, love the FREE FOOD.

Great for these types of students

Anyone and everyone. Best for those pursuing degrees in STEM fields, but I can vouch for our Psychology program in saying that it is spectacular.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Free Expression Tunnel is a place where graffiti is layered on day and night and is an interesting place to visit when you come on campus. We have also got a lovely gum wall on the sidewalk next to Dan Allen Dr, which is slightly disgusting. Lastly, everyone must see Hunt Library while they are at centennial campus. It is one of the most technologically advanced libraries in the entire U.S., containing a BookBot.

Bang for the buck

NCSU provides one of the most quality educations for an affordable tuition, especially in-state tuition.

What to do for fun

Of course, there is the typical fraternity party that you may attend as a freshman. Fraternity parties get boring quickly and you learn you would much rather spend time with solely your friends. My friends and I frequent the hookah bars in the area, because they are a nice place to chill and talk. I highly suggest the new hookah bar on hillsborough named Nara.

Food and Dining

The new Talley Student Center just opened, which has provided us with much better food. For the first month, the buffet style dining hall will attract you, but slowly you realize that it is not very good. I highly suggest you try Port City Java, they have delicious wraps and coffee.

Dorm Life

I loved living in a dorm my freshman year. I lived in an Honors Village dorm, and was very engaged in all activities in the Honors Quad. My second year at NCSU really demonstrated my yearning for my own private space and I cannot wait until I get my apartment. If you are in the honors program, I would highly suggest you live in one of the honors dorms. There really is a sense of community, and many events with free food. We also had some of the cleanest bathrooms on campus.

Academic Rigor

My program, Animal Science, is a pre-veterinary program and is very academically difficult. The classes don't have necessarily enigmatic information, but it is extremely hard to get an A in any of my major classes. Academic rigor is greatly based on your major and the professors that you have.

Tips for prospective students

Visit the university to see if you like the vibe you get from the campus. Apply for the honors program, it is a great opportunity to blend together STEM fields and the humanities. Attend football and basketball games, they are lots of fun and a wonderful chance to meet people. The first week of school is your chance to walk up to random people and introduce yourself (this is completely normal for only this week.) The school feels a lot smaller once you find your niche and many times, dorms can offer a feeling of community. If the school is appropriate for you, you will love it. If you end up attending NCSU, make sure to pick professors based on www.ratemyprofessor.com. The professors can unfortunately affect your GPA significantly.

In three sentences

NCSU is a large university designed originally for agricultural education; however, its current top programs are textiles, engineering, and veterinary school. Definitely consider NCSU if you are interested in these programs and don't be daunted by its large size. I have never met a single person who hasn't loved NCSU and I have plenty of wolfpack pride.

Anonymous

There is a wide variety of food available. They also have specialized foods for certain needs or tastes! There are also nearby restaurants that are really good, as well!

Dorm Life

The dorms in the residence halls are average size, shape, and layout. There are options available, however, for specialized housing (such as for women in science and engineering, people interested in art, etc.) that seem very interesting, beneficial, and interesting!

Academic Rigor

The classes seem challenging, but beneficial to one's overall educational experience. The labs seem highly advanced with technology and the teachers and staff seem very willing to help all students.

Kerry from Cape Carteret, NC

Cypher at the Free Expression Tunnel on Monday nights a little before midnight (only when it's no freezing out).

Academic Rigor

I pushed myself hard in high school (with a little honest slacking off my senior year) and I thought I would do fine in college. I've had to rework my whole study habits--I now study every night--and every second I'm using technology is related back to school work I have to do.

In three sentences

The faculty is amazing. NC State is already ranked high on it's standards in the US, but it's faculty are what make it incredible to me. Even if you're in a large class and don't try to put yourself out there too much, the learning you receive feels one-on-one.

Samanta from Apex, NC

02/13/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are some incidents like everywhere on college campuses, but for the most part I always feel safe. Police presence on campus in large and there are always buttons all around campus that students are able to push if in trouble. The response time is very quick if you do push the button. If at night there is an escort service that will pick students up and take them where ever they need to go.

Greek Life

Greek life is very prominent when tailgating at football games, but never really anytime else. The Greeks are all very welcoming and open to all types of people and they do do good things around our community.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many different types of clubs and activities. There is political clubs, service clubs, academic clubs, and clubs for any type of group it is possible to think of. Intramural sports are very big here as well and are always really fun. Raleigh is always having something going on downtown and it is a quick bus ride to get there.

Great for these types of students

NC State is really great for any type of student. Here we have so many different types of classes and different types of learning environments that it is a good place for all. The humanities department here is outstanding, the engineering department is one of the best in the country, and agriculturally NC State has an amazing school as well. There are classes for people who like to be in a small environment and for students who like to be in large classes as well. It is easy to study the way you want and teachers, for the most part, are very helpful for students who need extra help. For students with disabilities NC State is very accommodating for any type of disability as well.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Our free expression tunnel is something unusual about our campus. It is where anyone can go and paint/graffiti whatever they feel and whatever message they want to present without getting in trouble with the law and without being judged. It is a place where anyone can go and feel free to be them and not be scared to themselves.

Bang for the buck

The quality of education is great. You really learn things here and retain them for the most part. And most of the time it is very useful things. That said education now in general is too expensive and it is all too expensive, but NC State is, compared to places like UNC and High Point, cheap.

What to do for fun

There are many things to do for fun around campus. We are right by a major city with anything and everything someone could ask for. There are museums and cultural aspects and then there is also a great nightlife if you are over 21 all the time and under 21 on Thursdays. Basketball, Baseball, and Football games are all really fun to go to and have fun with friends.

Food and Dining

The food and dining are not stellar, but it is also not terrible. There are many different options that are available to all different types of people. There are dining halls and then there are places where subs and Chinese food are of easy access to students.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is very good. There are always bad cases of getting a roommate who you do not like but for the most part life in a dorm is great. The RAs are all really nice and understanding and they are a great help when you have a problem. The dorms all also make it easy to make friends because they have so many different activities that enable people to meet.

Academic Rigor

The academia at NC State is hard and if you get behind it is very hard to catch back up. The professors their classes manageable and are open to discussions and questions and are willing to work and help you succeed.

Tips for prospective students

Tips would be to not procrastinate and get involved in school activities. Procrastinating creates so much unnecessary stress and can be avoided so easily. Getting involved in school activities can make everything much more fun, its a easy way to make new friends and it is a great way to become involved in your community.

In three sentences

North Carolina State is welcoming and very open to new things. It has a great sense of community and is extremely well organized as a student body. The atmosphere here is very upbeat and is a great place to learn.

William from Creedmoor, NC

Food around campus is decent. Make sure to make healthy choices. High calorie foods and irregular exercise habits are a great way to put on a few pounds.

Dorm Life

I never lived on campus.

Academic Rigor

The course work at North Carolina State University can be challenging but very manageable as well. Use your time wisely.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you focus on school first to develop healthy educational habits before you begin to enjoy the freedom of college. Take advantage for your professors office hours. They are willing to help you.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is a great school and is truly invested in its students. The Staff at North Carolina State University are friendly and approachable. North Carolina State University offers great athletic programs and the student life around campus is second to none.

Kristen from Greensboro, NC

Needs better lighting on campus at night. Also more security in the enclosed parking areas and walk-through tunnels.

Clubs and Activities

Something for everyone or you can start your own. You can never say that there is nothing to do.

Great for these types of students

Textiles, Science and Engineering

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

When NC State wins a game they light up the bell tower. Also when a faculty member is being honored/recognized,, they light the bell tower and everyone goes there.

Bang for the buck

As an instate student you definitely get a huge bang for your buck. Prestigious school with great reputation for having exceptional professors, labs, and all other resources being up to date.

What to do for fun

Tailgate football games, attend ACC events and games, everything you could want or need is in downtown Raleigh which is so close to campus - shopping, dining, hanging out. Great weather allowing for almost year round outdoor sports fun like tennis, jogging and soccer. Close to public transportation: buses, airport and trains.

Food and Dining

From dining halls to chain restaurants that are all on campus, there is little need to go off campus. Top quality with great variety. Loved it!!!!

Dorm Life

Clean,, safe, roomy and the only place freshmen and sophomore's should live. Strategically situated to everything.

Academic Rigor

Harder than many universities I know about; however, endless resources available to help every student succeed. You definitely learn what you need to excel in the workforce. Depending on credit load, can be intense around exam time.

Tips for prospective students

1) Be sure to visit their Open House day in November each year while in high school as each time you learn more and more and will really feel at home as they are sooooo welcoming. 2) Numerous opportunities on campus to work or involvement/participation - something for everyone regardless of financial situation or interests. 3) May not be an ACC giant, but definitely a giant in the engineering and science fields.

In three sentences

Largest university in North Carolina. However, small school atmosphere as everyone and everything is so accessible and your professors will know you by name. Awesome location with downtown Raleigh so close to the campus.

Daniel from Charlotte, NC

03/08/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety is of the utmost priority at NC State. There are emergency posts all over campus that can triangulate on your position and deliver your location to police should you ever have an emergency. Police also offer instant email and text message alerts when a crime or warning is issued on campus.

Greek Life

Greek life plays a large part in the college experience of those who endeavor to be a part of it. It is a unique experience and a special bond of friendship that lasts a lifetime.

Clubs and Activities

There are nearly 700 clubs available to students across campus. From quidditch to computer and cyber security, there is something for everyone to be a part of that allows them to have fun and feel even more a part of the tight community at State.

Great for these types of students

Any type of student is a great fit. There's something for everyone.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Krispy Creme Challenge is a marathon that occurs once a year. Competitors must run two miles from the school's famous bell tower to the Krispy Creme on Hillsborough Street. Once there, they must eat a dozen doughnuts and run two miles back to the bell tower.

Bang for the buck

Excellent value at NC State. NC State has consistently been ranked as one of the best valued schools in America. I can't overstate how great a deal you will receive by attending this school. The kind of exposure you receive here is on par with many ivy league schools.

What to do for fun

There are plenty of things to do throughout the school year for fun. In October, the North Carolina State Fair comes to Raleigh and the state fairgrounds are less than two miles away from campus. Individual housing halls throw parties for various key events during the year. From promoting stress-free exams before midterms and finals, to having competitions between different dorm rooms, there will always be an even around the corner. Parties are optional, however be careful that you don't party too hard. Because Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina, there are tons and tons of historical locations and artifacts located in the city. You can tour the capital and legislature buildings, or tour the museums of Natural Sciences and History.

Food and Dining

The food at the dining halls is good most of the time. The benefit of eating there is that it's buffet-style. You can have unlimited food and unlimited dessert (which is the best part). If you're looking for a little more variety, the school offers several other venues for students. Options range from Chick-fil-a, to Mexican food and wraps, deli sandwiches, pastry stores, pizza shops, and hamburger diners. There are also plenty of options for vegetarian and vegan students. If you like coffee, there are several coffee diner around campus that offer a large range in their specialty blends and available treats.

Dorm Life

North Carolina State University offers several different styles of dorm rooms. It even offers apartment-like dorm rooms that don't require you to have a roommate. If you name it, you can have because the school makes your comfortableness its priority.

Academic Rigor

The rigor of the academics here somewhat depends on your intended major. For example, the math classes required for a science major may not be as rigorous as those required for an engineering major. However, the classes are by no means a walk in the park. It takes diligence and many hours of study time to conquer most of the classes here. Overall, though, the level of education you receive at North Carolina State University with respect to the cost of attending is unrivaled.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you pay attention to all of the opportunities for internships, co-ops, study abroad trips and scholarships that are thrown your way. I can't tell you how important it is to seize those opportunities because they look amazing on your resume and they help you develop tools and skills that are essential for a successful career.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is an excellent university for students looking for challenging classes while studying in an extremely diverse environment. NC State offers an incredibly wide variety of activities for students on campus. You will also meet people from all around the world while attending this school and this give you the chance to expand your horizons and develop lasting friendships.

Sha'Quiel from Scotland Neck, NC

03/19/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Although this is a generally safe campus, you're not necessarily blocked off from all the creeps and sketchy people. PLEASE lock your doors. I don't know how many times I've received wolfalerts about students leaving their doors unlocked and finding strange people. There was one about a guy walking into an unlocked door, taking a sip of water, then leaving...Crazy!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Spray painting in the free expression tunnel. Talley student center is a pretty popular place. It is still in progress of being complete. The Hunt library opened up not too long ago. People get kind of excited about that place as well. Very colorful. It's a robot it there too that grab the books for you.

Bang for the buck

Totally worth the money, IF YOU CAN AFFORD IT. It is a land grant college, so half of you tuition is paid for; but, it is the half that you don't see. It is expensive. The only reason why I'm here now is because of a pack promise scholarship. So do very good in high school, they'll pay for four years for you!

What to do for fun

Go out to eat with friends; that's always fun. I enjoy going to volleyball games (even though I've only been to one). Fashion shows are cool. Joins groups and clubs. I'm in a group called The Movement and I've met some great people who are also a part of it.

Food and Dining

After I moved into an apartment complex, I stopped going to the dining hall, so I'm not sure on how it is now.

Dorm Life

I was not a big fan of the dorm I stayed in. Me and my roommate did not become close and the showers were not my favorite place. The dorms are decent, but I am not sure if it was worth the money.

Academic Rigor

There's nothing that you're not able to learn, but you must take initiative. You have to ask questions, go to study groups, make your own study group, and never stress over anything. If you're stressing, that's a sign that you need to talk to your professor. There's no use in stressing by yourself. Pass it on to them so that they can help you. You can do it!!

Tips for prospective students

You should really decide on whether or not a PWI is the right choice for you. Your comfort in your college is important, but consider that you aren't always going to be around people who resemble you. You may feel uneasy at first if you're shy( I was) , but it will get better and you will find SOMEONE you can relate to. Don't wait til the last minute to try and get work done. It will pile up on you and cause you to feel overwhelmed in no time.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is great at attempting to making sure every single student feels welcomed and wanted. Although it is has the largest campus in North Carolina, there comes a point where it can feel smaller than what it actually is because of close bonds you were able to make with people. It can use some improvements, but can't we all?

Allison from Dobson, NC

03/27/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

there are so many activities to do around campus for fun. There are clubs, sports and activities going all the time. Since I am part of WISE there are many programs going on in my building and I love to go to those and participate in their activities and mingle with others. I also love to go to the sporting events.

Food and Dining

There are many options for food on campus. Without a meal plan it can be a little pricey, but you learn to budget what you can afford. After a while the food becomes routine and you want something different, so it's convenient that there are many dining options close to campus.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is good. Many people don't like it and it is not for everyone. The rooms can be small, but you learn how to organize your stuff to maximize the space. Sometimes it is hard to get along with your roommate or suitemates, but you learn to deal with that as well. Now that you are an adult, you have to learn to deal with your problems in an adult way.

Academic Rigor

Every class and teacher is different. You need to learn to effectively manage your time because your classes can be very rigorous and you need to learn to use your time effectively so you can distribute it between all your classes. You must learn to focus on the classes that are most important to your major and do the best in those. Put time into the classes you struggle in.

Tips for prospective students

For anyone who considers NC State, work hard and begin good studying habits now so you will not be overwhelmed once you get in. Also, begin to think about what groups you want to join, but don't join too many that it affects your schoolwork. Begin to work on your time management skills now and it will help you in the future.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is a great school that has many opportunities for students. They give students every opportunity to pursue their dreams and make the best of their education. NC State offers a wide variety of academics and extra curricular activities.

Rachel from Frederick, MD

There are rarely any crime warnings, and when they do occur its usually nothing big. There are emergency call buttons everywhere on campus that immediately alert the police when hit.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The wolf ears in the brick yard are really awesome. There are two curved seats that face each other about 100 ft apart. When you sit in one and some one else sits in the other you can whisper to each other and hear it just fine.

What to do for fun

There are a lot of good places to eat on Hillsboro street, including some bars. Downtown Raleigh is a short ride away and there are several fun clubs that are 18+. There is also a move theater on campus that shows recent films. The union activities board hosts a lot of events like concerts and cultural experiences. Volleyball courts are not hard to find, as well as fields for play touch football or whatever you like.

Food and Dining

There are three buffet style dining halls, and three food court style dining areas. The buffet style include Fountain, Clark and Case. Case is the best out of the three however at dinner it is reserved for athletes only. Fountain and Clark are pretty similar and can be hit or miss. Atrium is a place to go if you need to grab something to eat quickly, it has a variety of choices and healthy options. Talley is brand new and includes many different types of food including pizza, sandwiches, mexican and a diner. The other side of Talley has restaurant quality food from different parts of the world, this is called One Earth. The quality of the food is great, however it is difficult to get enough to eat and drink under the meal plan equivalency.

Dorm Life

Most of the dorms here are suite style, only a couple buildings are hall style. This is nice because you know the people that you are sharing a bathroom with and you are able to make friends pretty easily. They are kept up to date and the hallways and bathrooms are cleaned for in most buildings. Maintenance usually fixes things pretty quickly. The RA's and directors are always advertising fun events for students to get together.

Academic Rigor

Like all colleges there are some majors here that aren't very vigorous. However, if you intend on majoring in engineering or any hard science, be prepared. There are several weed out classes that are very difficult. If you want to succeed in the sciences, you will have to spend a lot of time studying.

Tips for prospective students

If you plan on attending State invest in a pair of rain boots, I promise they will come in handy. Join a village or group on campus for your first semester in order to make friends, this is a big campus but finding your niche makes it feel like home. Don't be afraid to talk to your professors if you are having trouble, most of them like having visitors during their office hours and it shows them that you are dedicated.

Trayvon from Grifton, NC

05/21/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

NC State's campus is very safe. The police are always on patrol and there are also police poles placed all around campus where all you have to do is press the button on the pole and the police will be to your rescue.

Greek Life

Greek life at NC State is very big on campus. There are many frats and sororities to join and there are also many parties thrown by these organizations.

Clubs and Activities

There are many intramural sports and also clubs of any one's interest.

Great for these types of students

NC State is great for students who love diversity and who loves a very interactive school who will help you with any of your needs.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a book called the Brick. The Brick has many goals in it to complete before graduation comes such as a krispey kreme challenge where you have to run a 5k and also eat an entire box of krispey kreme donuts.

What to do for fun

Nc State has a very large recreational facility that is open from 6am to 11pm everyday. There are open basketball courts, weight rooms, running tracks, swimming pools, saunas, and also a steam room.

Food and Dining

The food is tolerable in the dining halls but the same foods are served on the regular basis and also pizza everyday. There are a few chain restaurants on campus such as chick fil a and jason's deli which are much better in taste.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is a great opportunity to meet new people and to become acquainted with people that you will never forget during your lifetime. Every dorm has floor meetings on a regular basis and also dorm events where you will get to meet and interact with everyone in your dorm. It also may get rough at times when you have to share showers with others as others may leaver hair, trash, and urine in them.

Academic Rigor

NC States has many majors and minors to choose from and anyone can and will be able to pursue whatever they have the passion for.

Tips for prospective students

Prospective students should really be excited about maybe attending North Carolina State University as it will welcome you with open arms, and the students will also have no problems with making new friends. My only tips will be to bring joy and happiness and they will have a great time and receive a great education.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is a college that is filled with warm welcomes and thrives off of diversity. They have a wonderful education system where the professors really care about their students well being. NC State is a great college to attend and will make sure that you on on the right path to maximize your potential in any field during the future.

Madison from Asheville, NC

06/21/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There is no shortage of fun on campus. From clubs, movie nights, theater productions, athletic events and games, charity fundraisers, concerts, parties, lectures, fun runs and of course whatever fun/educational booth might be set up in the brickyard, it's never too hard to find something to join or attend for fun. Off campus options are just as great! Raleigh hosts numerous big name performers and has all kinds of events to attend. There are about 3 great malls within a 30 minute or less drive from campus, plenty of bars, restaurants, and other entertainment options in downtown Raleigh or close by areas like Cary and Durham.

Food and Dining

There are so many dining options on campus and there are only more options to come as the campus continues to expand the student center building and other areas. I will admit that eating on campus get boring very quickly though. After you've run the circuit of dining options under your meal plan you will definitely be craving a home cooked meal. However another plus is that being in the heart of Raleigh means that you are never too far away from a plethora of restaurants to choose from if you're looking for a night off from campus dining. You'll never go hungry though! I recommend the campus creamery though, delicious ice cream that was created by the NC State's food and science department!

Dorm Life

I have only lived one year on campus so far and I lived in a suite style dorm. Being a large school there are of course numerous living situations available. You also need to be open to trying out things you might feel scared about like a random roommate or a bathroom shared with an entire floor or suite of girls/boys. What I can say is that I felt very safe on campus, especially for the location being in the heart of a large city. The best part is that the housing department is great at answering questions and helping out students in need of a new roommate or living option better suited to their needs. But as always I can't say that NC State is the Hilton of dorm-life, at times I felt cramped in my shared room or uncomfortable in a shared bathroom with strange girls who invited random guests over every night. This is all a part of the college experience, and I felt like my first year experience of dorm-life at NC State was exactly what it needed to be in order for me to make the best decision about where I want to stay on/off campus during my sophomore year.

Academic Rigor

Do not let rival banter throw you off. NC State isn't a college that you can easily sail through. The general education course are often a shock to incoming freshman's systems.I have personally found that even the classes you think will be easy A's have a terrible way of sneaking up on you if you're not contributing your full time and effort to studying and keeping up with assignments. NC State focuses heavily on science and math courses and this leads to them being far more difficult courses with higher demands of excellence and bigger consequences for failure. Don't be sacred about this, just take into consideration that if you're looking to attend NC State and you're not as gifted in science and math that you need to be prepared for the required courses in those subjects which you will have to take in order to graduate. There are plenty of free study aid resources and programs on campus to help students achieve their best.

Tips for prospective students

Do not be afraid to ask for help! There are numerous resources and wonderful programs all over campus that are there for you to use to your advantage. Go speak to advisors about anything you might be overwhelmed or troubled with, they can help you in more ways than one!

In three sentences

NC State may seem like a big school at first, but it won't take long before you realize how quickly your classmates can turn into your greatest friends. I was lucky to even be accepted into this college and so I consider myself the type of student who has to work harder than most to achieve strong grades, and even if I fall short there is no shortage of help from the school's faculty, staff and resources. NC State is a place where I feel like I have every chance to graduate and enter the world prepared for the career I one day wish to achieve.

Fatisha from Charlotte, NC

06/22/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have blue-light poles all over campus to push when there is an emergency. The campus police are always around to ensure our safety! Additionally, you may call the campus police when it is late at night or early in the morning to get a ride back to your dorm/residence.

Clubs and Activities

NC State has over 300 active clubs, so needless to say there's a club for everybody! There are the more common clubs such as nutrition, dancing clubs (well over 5 of those, though!), fashion clubs, etc. But there's also more obscure ones like Quiddich! Also, intramural sports are popular and Greek Life is very prominent on campus.

Bang for the buck

I don't need to say much, because NC State is constantly rated in the top 5 or 10 schools with best value. We have so many resources here at State, and it is WELL worth the money.

Food and Dining

We have an extremely large number of different (and pretty good!) places to eat on campus, not to mention the copious amounts of restaurants nearby. No matter what part of campus you're at, there is a place to eat within a 5 minute walk. The fact that our dairy (ice cream included) is made on campus is amazing. And yes, the ice cream is WAY better than average.

Dorm Life

The dorm rules are reasonable and not strict at all. The nicer dorms are on the outskirts of campus and the smaller, more freshman oriented dorms are in the center. But when I say nicer, I mean they're actually nice! Overall, it's pretty great. Friendly and helpful housing staff/RAs, and different styles and types for the convenience of the students.

Academic Rigor

I was a bit surprised, honestly. I knew I would have to study more for college, but as an IB diploma recipient I was told it would be a little easier...it's not! However, the classes do range, as always. You'll find some pretty easy professors & courses, then you'll get hit with the hard ones! Overall, the school is not full of bang-your-head on-the-wall-because-you-give-up type classes, but you'll definitely need to study. In the end it's worth it, because you know you're getting a quality education!

Tips for prospective students

Be ready to work hard and walk a lot. The campus is a LARGE one, and the classes are pretty rigorous. But there's also always something fun to do when you need a break (for both people who party and people who don't).

In three sentences

It's a great, well rounded school (academics, athletics, food, extracurriculars). There is a friendly community (students AND teachers, as well as alumni!) that is always willing to assist. Everything about the school is convenient, also!

Emily from Cornelius, NC

07/10/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

Are certain in their career path or have no idea where they want to go. Incredible opportunities for degree exploration. Research opportunities and partnerships in every department for every discipline.

Each dining hall offers a variety of options. Very accommodating for dietary restrictions such as gluten and lactose intolerant, vegan and vegetarian.

Dorm Life

A great opportunity to meet individuals from different backgrounds with different interests. Housing villages the cater to a certain interest such as arts, being eco-friendly, or international studies.

Academic Rigor

Courses challenge the student to reach their full potential while TA's and professors offer time to assist students.

Tips for prospective students

Plan an overnight visit to campus. Participate in a campus tour and spend some time exploring the department of your interests. Speak with faculty, staff, and students during your visit to figure out what being a part of the Wolf Pack is all about.

In three sentences

Engaging and enriching academic atmosphere with a diverse faculty and staff. Diverse student body with many opportunities for research, internships, and co-op experiences. Encouraging environment for all students to explore their interests.

Leslie from Raleigh, NC

07/23/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Try out the Krispy Kreme challenge in the fall!

What to do for fun

Lots! Downtown Raleigh always has shows/entertainment going on. You are also next to Durham and Chapel Hill so if Raleigh doesn't have what you're looking for....you're sure to find it somewhere within the triangle.

Tips for prospective students

The fees are very high in comparison to other NC schools.

In three sentences

If you're interested in a technical school, NCSU is a good place to consider. The centennial campus is brand new and the facilities are top-notch. Raleigh is also a very fun town to live in with lots to do and a low cost of living.

Tyra from Clayton, NC

11/06/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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In three sentences

North Carolina State University is a great school. I'm enrolled in the College of Education and I thoroughly enjoy the smaller class sizes in this department. Campus life has really given me a boost in leadership, independence and providing me with an excellent academic program for my career goals.

Anna from Thomasville, NC

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Food and Dining

Lots of places to get food, and it's delicious!

Dorm Life

Rooms are a little small, but at the same time, they're the perfect size.

Academic Rigor

I haven't had classes yet, but from everything I've researched and been told, it's a great education.

Tips for prospective students

It's big, which seems overwhelming, but there are so many people that make it feel small and personal.

In three sentences

NC State is a surprisingly gorgeous school. I don't know how many people really pay attention to the beauty of the campus, but when I visited, I took notice of the life and nature that was well, everywhere. After all, State is in a big city! I intend to take another tour soon, guided by a friend who is a freshman at State.

Hannah from Durham, NC

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Great for these types of students

Engineers.

Bang for the buck

Cheap for in-state students!

What to do for fun

Go do the ArtWalk in Raleigh!

Food and Dining

It's /near/ great food.

Dorm Life

Dorms not awesome.

Academic Rigor

Engineering program is great, I hear, but the graduate program for teaching is a bit weak.

Tips for prospective students

In general - keep up with your studies and review your notes regularly and you won't have to cram for finals. NC State specifically - sports are a big deal here, as is engineering, but you don't have to be interested in either if you don't want to be.

In three sentences

It's a good school with good teachers and good prices for in-state students. Financial aid is lousy. It's in a great location.

Emma from Beaufort, NC

The food is healthy and wonderful. Although it does get old eating it everyday.

Dorm Life

Find a room mate with similar morals, values, work ethics, and motivations.

Academic Rigor

NCSU is the best school in the state!!

Tips for prospective students

Don't forget to use your time wisely and don't go out every night.

In three sentences

NCSU is a very welcoming school. You meet people from all over the world and you will definitely find at least one friend your first day of college. The academics are amazing, especially for STEM job majors. I've heard the State's anatomy class is the best in North Carolina.

FutureWolfpacker from Fayetteville, NC

03/11/2015

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

This school has a campus that is open to the community at all times (the dorms excluded); therefore, it might be a little frightening to be around campus at night. To our benefit, there are emergency stations at almost every corner. You can press the button and keep walking if you need to, and the campus police will soon be to your rescue. Have no fear!

Great for these types of students

If you value diversity and enjoy having a good time, this is the school for you. Even if you are a little different, I still believe you will find your place among others who are similar to you. This is a surprisingly diverse community of people with various backgrounds.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The annual Bell Tower race is always fun. Whether you are participating in the race to Krispy Kreme, or just watching, it will be enjoyable.

Bang for the buck

Compared to privately funded universities, NCSU is on the more affordable side; however, even if it was not, it would still be worth your money. You are provided with an adequate college experience while being given a substantial amount of education.

Food and Dining

The dining hall has plenty of variety. Whatever you have in mind is likely in their dining hall. Of course, you may have a different taste in food. Luckily, because NCSU is located in the heart of the state capital (Raleigh), there are plenty of restaurants in the surrounding areas.

Dorm Life

This campus has some of the best dorms you may ever see in a state university. Many of them have bathrooms (to be shared by two dorm mates or a number of suite mates), and those that do not are shared by floor. The rooms are very spacious and the beds can be lofted, which leads to even more room (if you want). Many of the dorm buildings have entertainment.

Academic Rigor

The vigor at this university is serious. Staying focused is a must. Luckily, there are support systems around campus that help you to study and write papers.

Tips for prospective students

Keep your eyes on your goals and you will be successful at North Carolina State University. NCSU is a vigorous university, and though you will have fun, it will require a lot of hard work and dedication.

In three sentences

North Carolina State University is a relatively low-priced university, providing quality education and student support. With adequate food, housing, and walking distances, this campus is certainly desirable as living quarters. Aside from that, count on tons of ways to find fun and many occasions where fun comes to you.

Margaret from Winston Salem, NC

03/21/2015

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have a blue light that can be seen from any point on campus and those blue lights have a call button that immediately calls our campus police in an emergency. We also have 24/7 campus police and they will escort you places at night if you feel unsafe walking across campus in the dark hours of the day.

Greek Life

We have lots of fraternities and sororities to join, including social, honors, and service groups. Just like Greek life at other places, people spend a lot of time with their fraternities/sororities and tend to make lifelong friends there. We also have a Greek row where people can live in the houses associated with their group.

Clubs and Activities

Again, we have 837 clubs and organizations, and if you don't find what you're interested in, you can create another one! There is always something going on, which will be advertised via emails, Facebook, and flyers on campus, and if you want something specific, just search it on ncsu.edu!

Great for these types of students

Athletes: We have club sports that meet once or twice a week and travel to tournaments together to compete. We also always have a intermural sport running that you can participate in, and if you can't get a team together, just go out to the fields and you will probably find a group playing pick up. Artists: We have an amazing craft center with wood-turning, painting, drawing, etc. that allows you time and materials for a small price to just do your art in their studios. Musicians: Even though we don't have a music major, we have pretty much every music class, and we have a music center where anyone can practice at any time. Every room has a piano and is sound-proof, so you can just go in there and practice your instrument without bothering anyone in your dorm! Actors/Actresses: We have an amazing performing arts center that puts on one musical a year and multiple plays each year, where you can audition and show off your talent! They are very popular and pull people from all over the area to see, and I have heard that the group is like a family! Compute people: Hunt library has every amenity you could ever want: full wall screens, 3D printers, every type of computer you might want to borrow and play on, and many other opportunities for you to explore! The place is a technology play center!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Krispy Kreme Challenge, a five mile race where you eat a dozen doughnuts in the middle, has been voted the number one thing you should do in college, and was created and is operated by NC State students. Additionally, we have a week-long event called Shack-a-Thon where organizations build a shack and competitively raise money for Habitat for Humanity. Finally, each year the design school puts on a fashion show called Art to Wear, and the designers create outfits out of materials not usually used in fashion. All of these traditions can be found in the Brick Tradition Keeper you get on your first day here.

Bang for the buck

NC State is the cheapest university in North Carolina, so you will get a massive, comprehensive university for a relatively low price. There are also millions of dollars in financial aid and scholarship money given out each year. This university is doing cutting edge things, and it is so important that the president of the United States has visited twice in the last two years!

What to do for fun

We have 837 student organizations, tons of intermural sports, and a club team for any sport you are interested in, so anything you are interested in can probably be found at NC State. Also, we have a rock-climbing wall in the gym, outdoors trips through the gym, video game rooms in the library, movie screenings in the campus cinema, plays, concerts, raves, game nights, visits to the lemur center, a great street for eating out with friends, and over 34,000 people to choose from to hang out with! If you leave your room, you will have fun, guaranteed!

Food and Dining

There is a lot of dining options on campus, and it is all pretty good and getting better, but it is college dining, so you will sometimes feel the need to go off campus or go home for a good home-cooked meal. Since there is so much of it, it is very convenient, and the meal plans are great!

Dorm Life

Dorms are awesome, and we have Living Learning Villages in each dorm that can connect you to people that have similar interests as you, and many people continue living with those people even after they move off campus! The dorms are also a pretty good size, and they are all located very close to food, so they are convenient living.

Academic Rigor

Classes are challenging, but you will be able to find tutors, group studying, and professor office hours are useful to learn and succeed in the classes. I have done well in all of my classes, but it is only because I put in the work required to succeed in a college class. The undergraduate research opportunities are also plentiful, so make sure to take advantage of that!

Tips for prospective students

You will be bombarded on the first week by the many organizations to join, so try them out for a little while and then decide which ones you want to pursue. STUDY ABROAD: there are programs on every continent and for every major, so there is no reason for you to miss out on that amazing opportunity.

In three sentences

NC State is a place where you can find anything that you are looking for, since it has lots of organizations and lots of colleges, but where you can also feel like you are part of a family. The professors are incredibly supportive here, and available often for whenever you have questions on the homework or class lecture. The classes are challenging, and the opportunities are competitive, so you will receive an amazing education here, while simultaneously experiencing all of the outside activities the university has to offer.

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